Walking to the ground in Bordeaux, the mood wasدمة: expectations were low after 58 years of absence from a major tournament. The anthem, heard for the first time in 1958, lifted spirits across the city.

The opening win over Slovakia saw Gareth Bale hit a trademark free‑kick and Hal Robson‑Kanu claim a late winner, sending Welsh fans into raptures. Chris Coleman’s side, buoyed by the belief that they could compete, kept calm amid the excitement.

A thrilling 2‑0 victory against Russia in Toulouse marked the best performance for Wales in a Euros, with Joe Allen and Neil Taylor scoring, and led by Joe Ledley’s midfield dominance.

The quarter‑final against Belgium was a turning point. Robson‑Kanu’s Cruyff‑turn culminated in a header, and Sam Vokes secured a 3‑1 win, propelling Wales into their first semi‑final and cementing the summer as a pivotal moment in Welsh football history.