Russian Roulette for a Place in Portugal
The Trophy
By Chris O'Brien
October 14 2003
Wales have drawn the tough test of Russia in the Playoffs for a place in the European Championships held in Portugal. There will be no Battle of Britain in the Playoffs, with Scotland drawing the Netherlands as they look to qualify for their first major championship since 1998.
| Wales Face Russian Test |
| Wales face a tough test as
they look to qualify for their first major tournament since World Cup 1958,
with Russia their opponents for the 2004 European Championship playoffs. Mark Hughes and his players will be relieved they missed out on drawing one of the 'big three' sides in the draw, who were Spain, Turkey and Netherlands, but two legs against the Russians would certainly not have been Sparky's first choice as opposition. The away trip is not the most attractive of places to visit, and Wales have to travel to Moscow first before the return leg at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium. Russia finished second in their qualifying group to Bulgaria, but managed to beat the Republic of Ireland to the playoff spot. There will be no 'Battle of Britain' in the playoffs, with Scotland facing the unenviable task of facing the Netherlands, although it would make an enjoyable away trip!. The Dutch failed to qualify for last years World Cup, and the pressure is on from their supporters to make it to Portugal. First leg ties will take place on either the 15th or 16th of November, with the return legs on either the 18th or 19th of the same month. The complete playoff draw is as follows: Lativa v. Turkey |