"I'm pleased that the second leg is at home as it's an advantage. We'll know exactly what we have to achieve.
"We've faded in two games recently but have had injuries and suspension. There are factors behind it. We looked at all the games last weekend and have reports on Russia. There's a very realistic chance that we'll qualify.
"Russia have obvious quality and are a great footballing nation, but if we have our best squad available then we'll do okay. The importance of qualifying cannot be overstated.
"We'll either go forward for the next ten years or stand still. Everybody is looking forward to these two games."
Conditions for the away leg may suit the Russians as the country's climate means it will be getting very cold there by next month but Hughes will be pleased to have avoided the best teams in the draw.
Wales have played Russia just five times and have beaten them only once, in 1965, but more recent history will be of greater concern.
Hughes' side have taken just one point from their last four qualifiers including a 3-2 home defeat by Serbia and Montenegro in Cardiff on Saturday.
Captain Gary Speed said: "Maybe Serbia were a wake-up call."
