The Welsh need a near-perfect match: prediction for New Saints vs Sabah
Sabah FK
The second leg of the Champions League first qualifying round between New Saints and Sabah is set for July 14, 2026, at Park Hall Stadium. After a 0-2 defeat in Baku, the Welsh champions must overturn a two-goal deficit, while the Azerbaijani side can afford to play cautiously and manage the tie.
New Saints: will have to take risks at home from the first minutes
In the first leg, Craig Harrison’s side managed to withstand pressure for a long time, but conceded twice in the final third of the match. Veljko Simic broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, and shortly before the final whistle, substitute Kahim Parris doubled Sabah's lead.
The main problem for the Welsh was their lack of attacking threat: they managed just one shot on target throughout the entire match. On home turf, New Saints typically look much more confident, and their experience of reaching the main stage of the Conference League two seasons ago proves they can compete in Europe. This time, however, they’ll need a much sharper attack.
Sabah: discipline and a comfortable advantage
Valdas Dambrauskas’ team played the first leg with discipline, gradually ramping up the pressure and denying their opponents any real chances. The 2-0 win continued the club’s upward trajectory after their historic domestic double last season, which ended Qarabag’s long-standing dominance in Azerbaijani football.
However, the visitors did suffer a personnel blow: defender Steve Solvet picked up a second yellow card in stoppage time and will miss the return leg. New signing Aidan McCarthy could fill his spot in central defense, while Parris - who scored off the bench - may be rewarded with a start.
Match facts
- Sabah won the first leg 2-0.
- New Saints managed only one shot on target in the match in Baku.
- Visiting defender Steve Solvet will miss the return leg due to suspension.
Home experience won’t be enough: New Saints vs Sabah prediction
The Welsh side will almost certainly start aggressively and try to bring intrigue back into the tie early on, as a cautious approach won’t suit them. Home support and familiar conditions should help New Saints look more dangerous than they did a week ago.
However, the need to push forward constantly will leave space for Sabah’s counterattacks. Sabah have already shown they can patiently control the tempo, and a two-goal cushion should be enough for the Azerbaijani champions to safely advance to the next round.
