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The name of 23 Wales internationals who will be packing their bags for Euro 2025 was announced this week, not in a press conference or training ground, but 1,085 metres above sea level.
At the summit of Yr Wyddfa, previously known as Snowdon, Cymru manager Rhian Wilkinson stood among stone paths to reveal her squad for a summer unlike any other. A summer for Wales competing in their first major tournament — Euro 2025.
Wilkinson, in her press conference, commented: “So, we have used this mountain as an image throughout the campaign. And equally, as we move toward the Euros, we have started talking more about the summit, the Everest part of it. That something is impossible until it isn’t. And we are there.”
This symbolism was not lost on anyone. Just as Wales have climbed their way into the elite of European football, their coach had climbed a mountain to name her team. The 23 names called out include a compelling blend of seasoned warriors, fresh talent, and stories of extraordinary resilience.
Veterans proving vital
Among them, Sophie Ingle, capped 141 times, returns after a year in a position she thought she might never be in. The veteran midfielder endured an ACL injury that sidelined her for the entire 2023/24 season. Yet she returned to training with such force that Wilkinson joked she’d made her look foolish for ever doubting her sharpness.
Jess Fishlock, Wales’ most capped and most prolific scorer, standing at 161 caps and 47 goals, also takes her place. Now 37 and still dazzling in the NWSL with Seattle Reign, Fishlock’s inclusion is testament to her drive and talent. Alongside her, another veteran, Angharad James, of over 100 caps, helps form a midfield trio rich in experience and identity.
These veterans are of valuable use to Wales. Wilkinson stated: “To get the team over the line at what may be the end of their careers. It’s one of those things as a coach you are really proud of, to help deliver that.”
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A landmark journey meets European elite
Wilkinson’s mountain-top announcement wasn’t just for dramatic effect. It echoed the path her squad has travelled. A journey of grit, heartbreak, and belief.
Their historic qualification came through a dramatic playoff victory over the Republic of Ireland, sealing their place at Euro 2025 and etching their names into Welsh sporting history. The squad is now preparing for the challenge ahead. A Group D clash that pits them against footballing giants England, France, and the Netherlands.
Wales currently sit 30th in the FIFA world rankings. On paper, they’re underdogs. But in Wilkinson’s mind, they’re contenders as they are there to compete and not just make up numbers.
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Fan-fuelled fire
The team’s belief is matched by a surge of national pride. More than 2,000 fans are expected to travel to Switzerland, their red shirts and daffodil bucket hats ready to turn stadiums into ones like back home. In Wales, the excitement is just as fevered, with Euro 2025 screenings, send-offs, and social media lighting up in support.
Wales will first regroup in a training camp in Portugal’s Algarve before heading to their tournament base in Lausanne, Switzerland. They open their campaign on Friday, July 5th against the Netherlands. A tough opening fixture, but one this team will be eager to face.
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Wales Euro 2025 road ahead
Win, draw, or lose, Cymru’s place among Europe’s elite is already cemented. But for Wilkinson and her squad, the mountain top was just the beginning. Now, they must climb again, this time across pitches in Switzerland, against the continent’s best. If recent history is anything to go by, don’t bet against them.
Wales Euro 2025 group stage schedule
Netherlands – 5 July at 17:00
France – 9 July at 20:00
England – 13 July at 20:00
Wales Euro 2025 squad
Goalkeepers: Laura O’Sullivan, Olivia Clark, Safia Middleton-PatelDefenders: Charlie Estcourt, Gemma Evans, Josie Green, Hayley Ladd, Esther Morgan, Ella Powell, Rhiannon Roberts, Lily WoodhamMidfielders: Jess Fishlock, Alice Griffiths, Ceri Holland, Sophie Ingle, Angharad James, Lois Joel, Rachel RoweForwards: Kayleigh Barton, Hannah Cain, Elise Hughes, Carrie Jones, Ffion Morgan
