Wales men beat Ireland in a shoot-out to capture EuroHockey Championship II honours in Portugal and cap a memorable weekend for the nation across genders.
Wales were already assured of their place in the World Cup qualifiers in 2026 and a return to the EuroHockey top flight in 2027.
The women will also compete in A division for the first time in 24 years after beating Austria 2-1 in their EuroHockey Championship II semi-final in Poland.
But they couldn’t mirror the men as Italy won the final 2-1.
In Porto, Jeremy Duncan gave Ireland the lead before Jack Pritchard levelled, with the scores locked at 1-1 heading into the shoot-out.
World No.17 side Wales won from the 23m line with a 3-1 result to defy the Irish.
Scotland came back from two goals down to win bronze with a 5-2 victory over Italy. Struan Walker scored four.
The women will also compete in A division for the first time in 24 years after beating Austria 2-1 in their EuroHockey Championship II semi-final in Poland.
Maria Agustina Fiorelli put Italy ahead before Isabelle deflection brought Wales level.
A penalty corner goal from Italy’s Frederica Carter proved to be the winner.
