Mark Hughes believes Wales' Euro 2004 dream is as alive as ever today after being paired with the Russians in the play-off lottery.
Hughes was clearly relieved at dodging Euro giants Spain, Holland and Turkey in this morning's draw in Frankfurt and the Welsh boss is revelling the opportunity of locking horns with Russia in the two-legged play-offs next month. Wales' final chance of qulaifying for the European Championships finals in Portugal.
Huges smiled, "It is a tough draw but we knew whoever we got would have been a tough tie.
However, we did avoid the more potent European football forces so we are reasonably happy."
Wales play their first leg on either November 15 or 16 away before returning for the second leg in Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on November 18 or 19.
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