The New Saints to Face Montenegrin Champions in UEFA Champions League Qualifier

The UEFA Champions League competitive action returns to Park Hall as The New Saints, the Welsh champions, prepare to face FK Dečić, the Montenegrin title-holders. This clash in the first qualifying round of the tournament presents a crucial test for Craig Harrison’s TNS side, with the potential for multiple further European ties.

FK Dečić, also known as the Blues (Plavi), have been a consistent presence in the Montenegrin First League, securing their first-ever league title in the previous season after finishing ahead of Mornar. In contrast, The New Saints dominated the Welsh league, finishing with a significant lead over Connah’s Quay Nomads.

With twenty wins, ten draws, and six losses in their league campaign, FK Dečić showcased their strength in Montenegrin football, while TNS secured an impressive record of thirty wins and two draws in the Welsh league.

Having faced several former Yugoslavian teams in European competitions, The New Saints will encounter a Montenegrin opponent for the first time in their club’s history, adding an element of novelty to the upcoming match.

The match officials for this encounter are from Belgium, with Bram Van Driessche as the referee and Mathias Hillaert, Yves De Neve, and Kevin Van Damme as the assistant referees and fourth official respectively.

The game is set to kick off at 7.00 p.m. local time at Park Hall, with tickets available for purchase. Fans unable to attend can follow the action for free on TNS TV, streamed by Planet Hippo and featuring commentary from Wales C manager, Mark Jones.