Spurs midfielder Simon Davies faces a tough test in Wales' Euro 2004 qualifier. Today's draw in Frankfurt pitched Mark Hughes' side against Russia, with the first leg to played in Moscow. The Welsh will be faced with thousands of noisy, klaxon tooting home supporters and freezing temperatures as well as a tough Russian side. The Russians finished second in their group ahead of the Rep of Ireland, so our Irish contingent of Chris Hughton, Robbie Keane, Stephen Carr and Gary Doherty will be able to lend a helping hand with the Welsh preparations. The two nations have not met since 1987 (when Russia was the former USSR) and Wales' last win came in the qualifying stage for the 1966 World Cup. However, boss Mark Hughes is confident that his side can get the results needed, 'There is a very realistic chance we can get through... I feel if we have our best players available we can do very well'. Davies is no doubt one of Wales' better players, and despite been out injured since the start of September should be fit for the crunch qualifiers.
Milenko Acimovic is also involved in a play-off, with Slovenia set to face Croatia. Acimovic, who played in the 2-2 draw against Cyprus on Saturday will be hoping to steer Slovenia to their second consecutive European Championships.
Draw in full: Latvia vs Turkey, Scotland vs Holland, Croatia vs Slovenia, Russia vs Wales, Spain vs Norway. Ties to be played 15/16, 18/19 November