Wales must beat Russia to qualify for Portugal 2004 45 years of hurt

In front of what is likely to be a record 74,000-strong crowd at the stadium, the result will determine whether or not Wales qualify for the championships in Portugal next year.

A win for Wales would see the nation reach their first major championships in 45 years - when Wales reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 1958.

And in the build up to Wednesday's game, it has not just been the red and white army of fans growing building up to fever pitch - politicians have also allied behind Mark Hughes' side.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan has sent a message of good luck to the Welsh team, and said he was keeping his fingers crossed.

"Good luck to the Welsh team from everyone in Wales," he said.

"Go out there tonight and enjoy yourselves and play to the best of your ability.

"You have already done terrifically well and we are all very proud of you.

"Three million of us in Wales are behind you cheering you all the way to Portugal. You can do it!"

But some Welsh MPs, who are also football fans, have been told they have to attend a debate in Westminster and will miss the big game.

Cardiff road closures during match Duke Street Castle Street High Street St Mary Street Caroline Street Wood Street Central Square Westgate Street Quay Street Guildhall Place Golate Park Street Havelock Street Scott Road

They have been told they have to be in Westminster for a crucial vote on the night of the match and cannot go.

Welsh Secretary Peter Hain has been forced to abandon plans for a mid week visit to the Millennium Stadium.

He said this was a bigger blow for him than that suffered by Sports Minister Richard Caborn, who has been forced to fly home from Australia, where the Rugby World Cup final is taking place between Australia and England on Saturday.

And for Llanelli's Michael Howard, the newly-installed leader of the Conservative Party, his love of football had to take second place to duty.

"I wish Mark Hughes and the team all the very best of luck for tonight," he said.

"I will be at the state banquet for President Bush at Buckingham Palace but my thoughts will be in the Millennium Stadium."

South Wales Police say roads around the Millennium Stadium will be closed to traffic from 1815 GMT on Wednesday until they are safe to reopen.

The game kicks off at 1930 GMT, and park and ride facilities will be available at Leckwith with coach parking at the civic centre.