Wales Vs Iran World cup 2022: Lyrics, meaning, and history of Welsh National Anthem

Since Wales' squad began participating in their first World Cup in 1958, the Welsh national anthem has been a worldwide discussion topic. "Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau," Wales' rousing song, translates to "Old Land of My Fathers" in English.

When the Welsh team, led by Gareth Bale, the captain, and 3,000 Welsh supporters sang the song before the country's opening match against the United States on Monday, November 21, it gave football fans worldwide goosebumps.

At the moment, singer-songwriter Billy Bragg tweeted, “Well Wales have won the national anthem singing contest. Their players looked proud to belt out their anthem while the US team looked faintly embarrassed to be singing in public.”


The anthem was performed during the match for the first time this year. When Wales last competed in a World Cup, they sang the Anthem 'God Save.'

Where did it come from?

"Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau" is Wales' unofficial but globally recognised national song, written by a father-son duo in Pontypridd, Glamorgan. The lyrics were written by Evan James, and his son, James James, composed the music in January 1856 while wandering along the banks of the Rhondda.

In July 1930, the municipality unveiled a memorial to the couple. The song, which was initially titled "Glan Rhondda" (literally "Banks of the Rhondda"), gained popularity after being published under its current title in the 1860s book Gems of Welsh Melodies.

The song was performed at the Bangor Eisteddfod festival in 1874 by Robert Rees, one of the most excellent Welsh soloists of the day. Following that, "Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau" became increasingly popular at patriotic events.

The National Anthem was first sung before a sporting event in 1905 when the national rugby team of Wales hosted New Zealand's players, who began every match with a haka. Wales midfielder Teddy Morgan led the crowd in singing the national song in response.

FAQ

Where is Wales?
Wales is a country in southwest England famed for its rocky coastline, mountainous national parks, unique Welsh language, and Celtic culture.

Are Welsh people considered British?
The vast majority of Welsh people are British citizens