Wales gave themselves a great chance of reaching their first major finals since the 1958 World Cup when they held Russia to a 0-0 draw in the first leg of their Euro 2004 playoff today.
The Russians dominated for much of the game, played on a cold Moscow night at Lokomotiv stadium, but could not break down a well-organised Welsh defence.
The visitors were content to sit back and play for a draw before the second leg in Cardiff next Wednesday, but without an away goal to their credit a scoring draw in Wales would be enough for Russia to qualify on the away goals rule.
Russia keeper Sergei Ovchinnikov and playmaker Alexander Mostovoi will both miss the Cardiff match after picking up their second bookings of the qualifying competition.
Before the match, some 400 Russian supporters clashed with Welsh fans outside a hotel near the Kremlin. Police arrested 10 Russians.
The Russian FA could also be in trouble with UEFA after a number of missiles, including firecrackers were thrown on the pitch during the second half.