Sabah 2‑0 The New Saints – Champions League Challenge

First Leg Ends in Defeat

The New Saints fell short in Baku, losing 2‑0 to Sabah in the opening match of the UEFA Champions League qualifiers. Veljko Simic and Kaheem Parris found the net for the Azerbaijani side, leaving TNS with a steep climb ahead. The Welsh champions, riding a domestic title spree, were largely confined to their own half for much of the encounter. Their comeback now hinges on the return leg at Park Hall on 14 July at 18:30 BST.

Sabah’s Dominant Display

Sabah controlled the tempo from the whistle, creating several chances that TNS’ defense largely repelled. Simic opened the scoring with a powerful header from Tymoteusz Puchacz’s corner, and he set up the second goal six minutes from time as Parris slotted home. The hosts were thwarted by wasted opportunities, with Puchacz, Joy‑Lance Mickels, Simic and Aaron Malouda all missing decent shots. TNS’ sole credible threat in the opening half arrived when Leo Smith’s corner‑knock was blocked.

Key Figures and Missed Chances

TNS fielded several familiar faces, including Aaron Malouda, son of former Chelsea winger Florent, who tested the visitors’ keeper with a curling effort that clipped the crossbar. The away side’s best chance fell to midfielder Leo Smith after a corner from Dominic Corness. Sabah’s attack featured Tymoteusz Puchacz and Joy‑Lance Mickels, both of whom missed easy finishes, while Simic’s two goal contributions proved decisive. The home defense, well‑organised and disciplined, limited TNS to a single half‑chance.

Road to the Second Leg

The New Saints enter the return fixture as the first Welsh club to reach the league stage of a European competition in 2024, a landmark that adds extra pressure. They will need to score at least once and ideally hold Sabah to a goalless afternoon at Park Hall. The tie kicks off on Tuesday, 14 July, with a 18:30 BST start, giving fans a chance to push for a historic comeback. Success would not only restore their Champions League hopes but also cement the club’s place in Welsh football history.