**Welsh Fans Drown Out Team Meeting with Passionate Anthem in Switzerland**
The streets of Lucerne were alive with a sea of red last weekend, as thousands of Welsh football fans made their presence felt ahead of an eagerly anticipated Euro 2025 showdown between Wales and the Netherlands. In a remarkable display of dedication and unity, the supporters not only rallied behind their team but also managed to create an unforgettable moment that rippled through the Cymru squad’s preparations.
Eye-witnesses and family members of players have recounted how the atmosphere outside the Welsh team hotel reached such a crescendo that it forced Wales’ manager, Rhian Wilkinson, to interrupt a pre-match team meeting. The origin of this stirring incident was the spontaneous gathering of approximately 4,000 Welsh fans — known collectively as The Red Wall — as they marched, arm-in-arm with Dutch supporters, from the fan zone all the way to the Allmend Stadion.
What initially began as a colourful, football-fuelled procession quickly transformed into something more. As the Welsh contingent passed a side street, they caught sight of the Cymru team bus, parked by the hotel hosting the players and staff. Sensing an opportunity to make their presence known and provide a final rallying cry, the supporters broke into a thunderous rendition of the Welsh national anthem beneath the windows of their team’s temporary residence.
Among those present were the parents of Wales’ star player, Ffion Morgan. Her mother, Ruth, speaking in Switzerland, described the surreal turn of events: “We were simply walking and singing, and happened to pass the street where the team were staying. When fans spotted the bus, they congregated without hesitation and started belting out the anthem.”
Ruth went on to explain how she captured footage of the impromptu choir, intending to share it with her daughter later — only to receive a text from Ffion moments after. “She messaged me, saying: ‘We’re in a meeting, and all we can hear is the anthem. Rhian has paused everything; we’re all at the window, with tears in our eyes, watching the fans below!’” The exchange proved particularly poignant, with Ffion sharing a video from the team room above, while Ruth responded with her own recording from the noisy street.
The effect on the Welsh squad was immediate and profound. Wilkinson was reportedly moved to halt the meeting entirely as players and staff crowded around the windows, transfixed by the outpouring of support from the Red Wall. Ruth described how the squad compared goosebumps and shared a wave of emotion, with many visibly misty-eyed. “Rhian told them how much of a lift it gave everyone. To receive that encouragement so close to kick-off was incredibly powerful,” she explained.
The day’s festivities weren’t confined to this single event. Earlier, the team’s loyal followers had packed the fan zone, immersing themselves in the celebratory atmosphere. “It was just a wash of red everywhere — bucket hats, songs, and endless energy,” Ruth continued. She recounted how announcements to leave the fan zone were met with shouts of ‘Yma O Hyd’ and other chants, fuelling the camaraderie. The sense of community and mutual recognition among supporters added to the excitement, building anticipation for the fixture.
Ffion’s father, Phylip, reflected on the experience, noting the unique family-friendly atmosphere of the women’s football event. “One dad told me he felt like he was in heaven. He’s a football fanatic who was there in 2016, but now he’s here with his three children. It’s such a welcoming, safe place — everyone can enjoy the football together.”
He also highlighted a marked difference compared to the intensity often found at men’s matches. “There was none of the edge you sometimes see elsewhere. Even with controlled alcohol sales, it remained a joyous, secure space, full of positivity,” Phylip remarked.
Stories like this reinforce the powerful connection between the Wales team and their supporters. The day before the game became about much more than just football; it showcased a passionate nation united by song, pride, and solidarity, reminding everyone present why the Red Wall has earned its famous reputation across Europe.
As the European tournament continues, Wales’ travelling fans have already vowed to maintain their fervent support. Such moments, filled with emotion and togetherness, are likely to stand out as cherished memories for players and fans alike long after the competition fades into history.