The over-70s team delivered a flawless run, culminating in a 2–0 victory over the USA in the final. Their triumph marks back-to-back World Cup wins, cementing their reputation as one of the most dominant sides in veteran football. The squad’s consistency, tactical discipline, and attacking flair were praised throughout the tournament.
Meanwhile, the Wales over-75s team — which included 79-year-old Steve Davies from Penarth also impressed.
Davies, who began playing walking football at Penarth Leisure Centre just a few years ago, was part of a squad that swept through the group stages with emphatic wins: 5–1 against North Carolina, 4–1 over Australia, 2–0 versus Tokyo, and 4–0 against Japan.
In the semi-final, Wales drew 1–1 with England in regular time, but were narrowly defeated in a tense penalty shootout. Despite the heartbreak, the team’s performance was widely praised for its resilience and sportsmanship.
Steve’s journey from local leisure centre sessions to the world stage has inspired many. “It was a fantastic experience last year, and now he’s gone all the way to Japan it means the world to us,” said his daughter, Kelly Davies.
Last year, Steve was part of the Wales squad that reached the final of the over-75s World Cup in Cardiff, where they mounted a dramatic comeback against England before losing on penalties.
This year’s tournament in Japan brought together veteran teams from across the globe, with full-format matches featuring running, heading, and competitive play. For both Welsh squads, the event was a celebration of lifelong passion, community spirit, and the enduring power of sport.
From Penarth to Japan, Steve Davies continues to prove that age is no barrier to excellence and Wales’ veteran football legacy is stronger than ever.
AloJapan.com