Hughes lives the dream as Wales close in on World Cup play-off final
Wales are 90 minutes from keeping their World Cup dream alive, and forward Elise Hughes says getting there would fulfil a lifelong ambition.
Rhian Wilkinson's side lead Albania 1-0 ahead of the second leg of their Women's World Cup play-off semi-final in Llanelli on Tuesday. It is a knockout tie played over two games, with the score added together. A win or a draw sends Wales through BBC.
That is why Hughes is refusing to look further ahead. The Sunderland striker told the BBC the Albania return is the most important game to date because it is next, and Wales must focus only on winning it.
The prize is simple. Beat Albania over the two legs and Wales will meet either Norway or Romania in a two-legged play-off final in December, home and away, for a place at next summer's World Cup in Brazil.
Even then the road would not be finished. Victory in that final could still mean an inter-confederation play-off in February, where teams from different continents meet for the last spots at the tournament.
Wales, known as Cymru, are trying to reach the FIFA Women's World Cup for the first time Football Association of Wales. Wilkinson named Hughes in her squad for the Albania play-off after the forward's strong club form with Sunderland.
What makes this stand out is the closeness of it. One goal separates Wales from the next round. One night in Llanelli can carry the whole campaign forward.
For fans, this means everything is still to play for. Wales have the lead. They have home advantage. Now they need to finish the job.
