In this video
- Until today, the Wales coach said, the tournament had felt like something in the future. Driving in past the emblems and arriving at the stadium, it became this is it, and the coach is really excited.
- The Wales player said it has been a very long journey, and the group always came up short before. Seeing Wales on the biggest stage is something she did not know she would experience personally.
“This is not about anything other than being just unbelievably present.”
- Asked if everyone is fit, the Wales coach said not to panic. Opening-day nerves are normal, the team is handling it like seasoned pros, and all of them are healthy and ready to go.
- Asked about Wales being the underdogs, the player said, repeating a line from the night before, that it is a privilege. She said the team knows it is ready for the fight.
- The Wales coach called the Netherlands a top, fluid team with some of the biggest stars in the game. The player said these are the games they want to play in, and that Wales are here to change things.
- Asked about a player back from an ACL injury, the coach said going from no 90-minute games to 90 minutes would be a challenge. That player is healthy and back fully with the squad.
- Asked if the result will set the tone, the coach said no, having won Olympic medals after losing first games. What does set the tone is working through the nerves and finding that flow.
Wales are set to make history as they step onto the European Championship stage for the very first time, facing powerhouse Netherlands in their opening match of UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. It’s a landmark moment for Welsh football, marking not just a debut at a major tournament, but a statement of growth, ambition, and national pride.
Head coach Rhian Wilkinson has instilled a fearless mindset in her squad, blending experienced leaders with promising young talent. While the Netherlands enter the match as favorites, Wales are determined to prove they belong at this level. From the tactical preparations to the emotional weight of the occasion, all eyes will be on how the debutants handle the pressure and rise to the challenge.
Can Wales pull off a shock result? Or will the Dutch assert their dominance? One thing is certain — this is more than just a football match for Wales. It’s the beginning of a new chapter.
