The 105th encounter between England and Wales takes place this Thursday at Wembley Stadium, marking the latest chapter in one of international football’s oldest and fiercest rivalries.
While England has historically dominated the fixture, the rivalry has been punctuated by moments of intense drama, massive upsets, and memorable goals.
The upcoming friendly is a chance to reflect on the great history of this cross-border feud.
The rivalry is steeped in over 146 years of tradition, stretching back to the very first meeting in 1879.
Ahead of the 7:45 PM BST kick-off, this article looks back at three classic encounters that perfectly capture the passion and unpredictability of this unique football battle.
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The three defining matches of the rivalry
The Wembley Upset (England 0-1 Wales, May 1977)
This match is perhaps the most famous Welsh victory on English soil.
Playing at the old Wembley Stadium, Wales secured a remarkable 1-0 success thanks to a penalty from Leighton James just before half-time.
England, managed by Don Revie and featuring legends like Kevin Keegan and Trevor Brooking, could not break down a resolute Welsh defence, marking Wales' only ever victory at the original Wembley.
The Wrexham Rout (Wales 4-1 England, May 1980)
In one of Wales’ most emphatic victories, they hammered an England side 4-1 in the British Home Championship at the Racecourse Ground in Wrexham.
After Paul Mariner put England ahead, Wales roared back with goals from Mickey Thomas and Ian Walsh before half-time.
Leighton James added a third, and a Phil Thompson own-goal completed the famous rout. The victory was Wales' first home win against England in 25 years.
The Euro 2016 Thriller (England 2-1 Wales, June 2016)
The most recent competitive clash was a thrilling encounter at Euro 2016 in Lens, France.
Wales, led by a long-range free-kick from Gareth Bale, took a surprise lead just before half-time.
England boss Roy Hodgson responded by bringing on Jamie Vardy and Daniel Sturridge at the break.
Vardy quickly equalised, and fellow substitute Sturridge grabbed the dramatic winner in injury time, sending the Three Lions through to the knockout stages.
🏴 England v Wales 🏴
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) October 6, 2025
Who could forget when the two met at Euro 2016?! 👀 pic.twitter.com/asfRdmKaQg
The rivalry continues at Wembley
The upcoming International Friendly on Thursday will be the 105th meeting between the two nations, with England seeking to extend their current seven-match winning streak against their rivals.
The last time Wales defeated England in football was in 1984.
The match at Wembley, an official Alzheimer's Society International, provides the Welsh team with a perfect opportunity to record a famous upset and earn their first victory over their neighbours in over 41 years.