The Champions League qualifying round is heating up with Decic set to host The New Saints (TNS) in the second leg of the first qualifying round.
This matchup is crucial as Decic aims to overturn a 3-0 deficit from the first leg. Here’s an in-depth look at the teams' form, predictions, and key news.
Match Preview
Decic's Form and Performance
Decic Tuzi finished first in the Montenegrin top flight with 70 points. Despite their domestic success, their performance in European competitions has been lacklustre.
They have not won any of their five games in UEFA competitions and are seeking their first victory in European football.
Last season, Decic scored three or more goals in seven matches, but achieving a three-goal margin remains rare for them.
They also maintained 16 clean sheets in their 36 league matches, showcasing a strong defensive record.
The New Saints' Dominance
The New Saints dominated the Welsh Premier League, finishing with 92 points.
They scored an impressive 117 goals and conceded just 18, making them the best offensive and defensive team in their league.
TNS went unbeaten in both the regular season and their championship playoff group, highlighting their formidable form.
However, they have struggled in European two-legged ties, failing to win their last five encounters, including a dramatic 5-5 aggregate draw with Viktoria Plzen in the 2021-22 Conference League.
Team News
Decic Lineup
Manager Milorad Pekovic is likely to start Bojan Matic up front, who was prolific last season.
Ian Puleio may also feature prominently after being subbed on early in the first leg. Decic's possible starting lineup includes:
Nikic; Dresaj, Milic, Ujkaj, Malesevic; Chagas, Bozanovic; Puleio, Kajevic, Masovic; Matic
The New Saints Lineup
For TNS, Brad Young is expected to start, having scored twice in the first leg.
Craig Harrison will likely field a similar XI, including Daniel Davies at left-back and captain Daniel Redmond in midfield. T
he New Saints' possible starting lineup includes:
Roberts; Daniels, Pask, Bodenham, Davies; Clark, Redmond, Smith; Brobbel,; Young, Williams
Prediction
Although Decic showed resilience last season, overcoming a 3-0 deficit against a team as dominant as The New Saints seems unlikely.
TNS’s strong form and scoring prowess make them clear favourites.
Our Prediction: Decic 1-3 The New Saints (TNS win 6-1 on aggregate)
Dečić 
New Saints 
