The New Saints saw their UEFA Champions League hopes left on a knife edge after falling to a 2-0 defeat against Sabah in the first leg of their first qualifying round tie in Baku.
TNS stifled in first half
The Cymru Premier champions, who won their 18th domestic title last season, struggled to impose themselves from the outset. Sabah, the first-time champions of Azerbaijan, dominated possession and pinned Saints deep inside their own half. Tymoteusz Puchacz, Joy-Lance Mickels, and Aaron Malouda—son of former France winger Florent—all squandered early chances, but the Welsh side’s disciplined defence held firm. The visitors’ best opening came when midfielder Leo Smith saw his shot blocked from a Dominic Corness corner.
Simic inspires Sabah resurgence
The deadlock was finally broken just past the hour mark. Veljko Simic rose highest to power a header past goalkeeper Nathan Shepperd from Puchacz’s corner, giving the hosts a deserved lead. Moments earlier, Malouda had cut inside and curled an effort just over the bar, underlining Sabah’s intent. Simic then turned provider six minutes from time, threading a pass for Kaheem Parris to slot home and double the advantage, leaving TNS with a daunting task ahead of the return fixture.
Second leg promises Park Hall showdown
The tie remains alive, but The New Saints will need a formidable performance at Park Hall on 14 July to overturn the deficit. Craig Harrison’s side will take encouragement from their defensive organisation in the first half, yet they must find a cutting edge to breach a Sabah team that looked dangerous throughout. With a place in the next qualifying round at stake, home advantage and a vociferous crowd could prove pivotal.
Key Takeaways
- Sabah controlled the game and deservedly took a two-goal lead through Veljko Simic and Kaheem Parris.
- TNS were defensively resilient in the first half but offered little attacking threat, managing few chances.
- The second leg at Park Hall on 14 July gives Saints a chance to salvage their European dream.
- Sabah’s first Azerbaijani title has been followed by an impressive Champions League debut showing.
Quick Facts
Competition: UEFA Champions League first qualifying round, first leg
Score: Sabah 2-0 The New Saints
Scorers: Veljko Simic (63'), Kaheem Parris (84')
Venue: Bank Respublika Arena, Baku
Second leg: Tuesday, 14 July, 18:30 BST, Park Hall
Source: BBC Sport
