Wales vs Portugal: Where were Euro 2016 semi-final heroes four years ago?
It's been a remarkable rise to international stardom for several members of the Wales squad
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Wales’ remarkable run to the semi-finals of this summer’s European Championships has been one of the stories of the tournament.
Only the outright minnows Iceland can claim to have enjoyed the last month as Chris Coleman’s men, who find themselves in the last four of a major international tournament for the first time.
On Wednesday, they face Portugal, an organised and effective team who have, nevertheless, made it to the latter stages without beating any team inside 90 minutes. One more miracle may not be too much to ask.
Win or lose, in a season of rags to riches stories, Wales have contributed a fitting coda. So, where exactly was each Welsh squad member four years ago, during the last European Championships in Poland and Ukraine?
It’s not known whether, like Jamie Vardy, any of them were on a lads’ tour in Zante, but 12 of the 23 played outside of top-flight football.
Those that were at the highest level, save an obvious one or two, were fighting relegation or helping a newly-promoted team keep their head above water.
Take a look at the gallery above to find out how each player’s fortunes have changed.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments