Over-70s footballers become world champions again

The Wales Over-70's team did not concede a single goal on their way to World Cup glory

The Wales men's Over-70s football side have been crowned World Champions for a second year in a row after claiming victory in Japan.

The team remarkably finished the tournament without conceding a goal beating the USA team 2-0 in the final.

Goalkeeper Alan Meacham said it has been a "brilliant" but "very demanding" week as they battled the heat, humidity and time difference.

The squad are now set to return to Wales where they will "absolutely" be having a party to celebrate their achievements.

The squad played in six matches during the tournament taking on nations such as Germany and Australia en route to the final.

"It's been really demanding, but the boys have really pulled together," Mr Meacham told Radio Wales Drive.

"We've got a great team spirit amongst the squad, we enjoy each other's company and it's been an absolute fantastic experience for us at our age."

He said Wales were "by far the best team" in most of the games but that all changed in the final.

"We we had our backs to the wall for much of the game.

"The USA are a quality sid with lots of former MLS professional players."

To his delight, the team dug deep, and managed to score two "fantastic goals" courtesy of Graham Miles.

"Once we got our noses in front, there was no way we were going to lose that game," said Mr Meacham.

Goalkeeper Alan Meacham says veteran leagues in Wales are thriving

The team were shattered after the "huge effort" they put in, but still managed to head out for some food and drinks to celebrate.

"Given our age, you really wouldn't ask teenagers to do what we've been doing over over the last few days," said Mr Meacham.

With two consecutive victories under their belt attention is already turning to 2026.

Mr Meacham said he believed the success on the pitch is a reflection of the work that has been put in off it.

"Veterans football in in Wales is really strong.

"The way it's structured in five year age bands helps and it's going from strength of strength."

Across the leagues he said there are "about 2000 players" from Over-40s to Over-70s teams in Wales.

"It's great for our physical well being and for our mental well being.

"We've made so many friends, and we've had some fantastic experiences since we've been playing veterans football."

The team are now preparing to return to Wales with plans to host a party to show off their trophy and medals.