The New Saints face an uphill battle in their Champions League campaign after a 2-0 first-leg defeat to Sabah in Azerbaijan. The hosts secured their victory with second-half goals from Veljko Simic and Kaheem Parris in Baku.

Sabah, champions of Azerbaijan for the first time last season, controlled much of the match, particularly in the first half, but were unable to convert numerous early chances. Despite a disciplined defensive effort from the Saints, Simic broke the deadlock with a header from a corner in the 54th minute. Parris sealed the win for Sabah six minutes from time, assisted by Simic.

The Saints, who secured their 18th Cymru Premier title last season, now return home for the second leg at Park Hall on Tuesday, July 14th. They must overcome the two-goal deficit to advance in the competition, a task made significantly more difficult by this away loss.