​Spain are pursuing World Cup glory in the United States, but their under-19s have already tasted success this summer. The Spanish youngsters emerged as the standout team at the UEFA Under-19 European Championship held in Wales over the past two weeks. Playing an impressive brand of football, they found the back of the net 19 times, and their 2-0 victory over Germany in the final secured Spain’s 10th title in this age group. The hope is that some of these players can now follow in the footsteps of Lamine Yamal and push into the senior national team in coming years.
But what about the legacy for Wales, the host nation? The tournament was staged across the north of the country to mark the 150th anniversary of the Football Association of Wales (FAW). Its chief executive spoke of a lasting impact. “The legacy of the tournament is massive,” Noel Mooney told BBC Sport Wales. “We had a vision for this tournament that we would leave a legacy of great facilities and something that would last for many, many years. UEFA have been absolutely delighted with how we’ve managed this tournament and the delivery of this tournament.”
Wales, competing in the UEFA Under-19 finals for the first time, found the going tough, losing all three group games, including a 7-0 defeat to eventual champions Spain. Fixtures were spread across Central Park in Denbigh, Bangor City Stadium, The Oval in Caernarfon, and Wrexham’s Racecourse. “We’ve had a load of volunteers and FAW staff working, and, of course, the four clubs involved have been outstanding,” added Mooney. “This year is the under-19 championship; in 2028 we’ve got the senior Euros – one of the biggest events in the world – coming to Cardiff. Then we’re in for the 2029 Women’s Champions League final in Cardiff as well, and we’re down for the Women’s World Cup in 2035. We are very much trying to bring the world to Wales and to use football as a way to grow tourism and create jobs.”
Mooney noted that the tournament had given a boost to the region’s economy over the past month, with local businesses benefiting directly. Spain head coach Paco Gallardo and his German counterpart Christian Worns both acknowledged the warm welcome and hospitality they received, while also praising the tournament’s facilities, which served as a fitting stage for the matches, including Spain’s victories over host Wales.
For Wales, the on-pitch experience was challenging. Chris Gunter’s side lost all three games, conceded 14 goals, and failed to find the back of the net. Yet, for Gunter, who has joined Aaron Ramsey’s coaching team at Oxford United, there remains plenty for Wales’ young players to learn from the experience, despite the disappointment. “For the players, in the longer piece, it’ll be a really good thing because of the experiences that they’ve had,” he said. The tournament’s lessons, the facilities created, and the exposure gained are set to contribute to Wales’ development pipeline as the country continues to leverage football to boost tourism, economy, and national pride.