The New Saints vs Decic predictions, betting tips and match previews in the Champions League qualifiers. The New Saints host Decic in Tuesday’s Champions League qualifier, aiming to capitalise on home advantage before heading to Montenegro. Read on for our free predictions and tips.

Champions League | First Qualifying Round – Jul 9, 2024 at 7pm UK at Park Hall Stadium

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The New Saints vs Decic Predictions

Can The New Saints Overcome Decic in Champions League Qualifier?

On Tuesday, The New Saints (TNS) will commence their 2024-25 Champions League qualifying journey as they face Decic in the first leg of the first-round tie. This match, held at Park Hall Stadium, is crucial for TNS to establish a strong lead before travelling to Montenegro for the second leg.

Team Overview and Expected Lineups

The New Saints, champions of the Cymru Premier, dominated their league last season with 92 points from 96 available, capturing their third consecutive title. However, their recent history in European competitions has been less impressive, failing to progress beyond the first qualifying round in the past two seasons. They will be eager to overturn this trend and make a significant impact this time.

Expected TNS Lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Connor Roberts
• Defenders: Ash Baker, Josh Pask, Danny Davies, Jordan Marshall
• Midfielders: Rory Holden, Ben Clark, Daniel Redmond
• Forwards: Brad Young, Adrian Cieslewicz, Jordan Williams

Decic, on the other hand, are making their Champions League debut after winning their first Montenegrin First League title. They secured the title with a consistent performance, finishing six points clear. However, their track record in European competitions is poor, having not won any of their four UEFA matches to date.

Expected Decic Lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Igor Nikic
• Defenders: Jonathan Dresaj, Stefan Milic, Robert Gjelaj, Pjeter Ljuljdjuraj
• Midfielders: Caique Chagas, Draško Božović, Ognjen Stijepović
• Forwards: Bojan Matic, Oliver Šarkić, Andrej Bajović

Expected Goals and Match Dynamics

TNS, known for their high-scoring games, averaged 2.3 goals per game in the Cymru Premier last season. They possess a formidable attack led by Brad Young, who scored 29 goals in 36 appearances. Their defensive solidity, with an average of just 0.6 goals conceded per game, further strengthens their prospects.

Decic, though successful domestically, face a significant challenge in translating that form to the European stage. Their defence will be tested by TNS’s potent attacking force, and their previous European outings suggest vulnerabilities that TNS can exploit.

Key Duels and Tactical Battles

The midfield clash between TNS’s Ben Clark and Decic’s Caique Chagas will be vital. Clark’s ability to control the tempo and distribute the ball effectively will be crucial for TNS’s strategy, while Chagas’s defensive responsibilities and creative input will be key for Decic’s chances.

In the forward line, Brad Young of TNS will be a constant threat to Decic’s backline. His duel with Decic’s experienced defender Stefan Milic will be one to watch. Young’s agility and finishing skills versus Milic’s defensive acumen could be decisive in determining the outcome.

Managerial Insights

TNS’s manager Craig Harrison faces the challenge of breaking their European jinx and leading the team past the first qualifying round. The emphasis will be on maintaining defensive discipline while leveraging their attacking strengths. Conversely, Decic’s manager must instill belief in his squad and devise a strategy to counter TNS’s home advantage and formidable attack.

Critique of Decic’s Approach

Decic’s strategy in European competitions has been found wanting, with a defensive frailty that has cost them dearly. Their lack of wins in European outings reflects a fundamental issue with their tactical setup and mental resilience. The team needs a more coherent defensive strategy and better organisation to withstand the pressure from higher-level European opponents.

Area of the Field and Key Duels

The central midfield will be the pivotal area where the game could be won or lost. TNS’s ability to control possession and transition quickly from defence to attack will hinge on Ben Clark and Daniel Redmond. For Decic, Chagas and Božović must disrupt TNS’s flow and create counter-attacking opportunities.

Gameplay Predictions

TNS are expected to dominate possession, press high, and utilise their attacking width to stretch Decic’s defence. Their strategy will focus on quick passing and exploiting gaps in Decic’s backline. Decic, meanwhile, may adopt a more defensive posture, relying on quick counter-attacks and set-pieces to create scoring chances.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The New Saints:

• Strengths: Strong home record, high-scoring attack, solid defensive unit.
• Weaknesses: Recent poor European form, occasional lapses in concentration.

Decic:

• Strengths: Domestic consistency, potential for resilient defensive displays.
• Weaknesses: Poor European record, lack of experience at this level, defensive vulnerabilities.

Managerial Strengths and Weaknesses

TNS’s manager Craig Harrison must focus on breaking their European barrier and instilling confidence in the team. His tactical flexibility and ability to motivate the squad will be crucial. Decic’s manager Milorad Peković needs to address the team’s defensive shortcomings and build a cohesive strategy to compete at this higher level.

Predictions

Best Bet: The New Saints to Win and Over 2.5 Goals

Given the comprehensive analysis of both teams’ strengths and weaknesses, the best bet for this match is The New Saints to win combined with over 2.5 goals. TNS have demonstrated a formidable attacking prowess, averaging 2.3 goals per game in their domestic league last season. Their offensive capabilities are bolstered by the likes of Brad Young, who netted 29 times in 36 appearances, and Adrian Cieslewicz, known for his creativity and finishing.

Decic, while successful in their domestic league, have struggled in European competitions, failing to secure a win in any of their four UEFA matches. Their defensive vulnerabilities are evident, and facing a high-scoring side like TNS, they are likely to concede multiple goals. The Welsh champions’ home advantage at Park Hall Stadium, combined with their potent attack, suggests that they will not only secure a victory but also contribute to a high-scoring game. Therefore, expecting over 2.5 goals alongside a TNS win is a solid prediction.

Correct Score Prediction: The New Saints 3-1 Decic

Building on the rationale for the best bet, the correct score prediction for this match is a 3-1 victory for The New Saints. TNS’s attacking statistics indicate that they are capable of scoring multiple goals, especially against a side like Decic that has shown defensive frailties in past European outings. The home team’s dominance in the final third, coupled with their ability to convert chances, supports the expectation of them scoring three goals.

Decic, despite their struggles, possess some attacking threats, particularly from Bojan Matic, who scored nine goals in 14 appearances last season. This suggests that they are capable of finding the net, potentially through a counter-attack or set-piece. However, their overall defensive issues are likely to see them concede several times. Thus, a 3-1 scoreline accurately reflects the anticipated dynamics of the game, where TNS dominate but Decic manage to score a consolation goal.

Goalscorer Prediction: Brad Young to Score

Brad Young, the leading scorer for The New Saints last season with 29 goals, is the standout candidate to score in this match. His consistency and ability to find the net in crucial moments make him a significant threat to Decic’s defence. Young’s positioning, movement, and finishing skills have been key to TNS’s success, and he is likely to continue this form in the Champions League qualifier.

Decic’s defence has shown vulnerabilities, particularly in European competition, and Young’s presence in the attacking third will be a constant challenge for them. Given his goal-scoring record and the creative support from teammates like Adrian Cieslewicz and Rory Holden, it is highly probable that Young will find the back of the net. Whether through open play or set-pieces, Young’s goal-scoring prowess will be pivotal in this match.

First Team to Score: The New Saints

The New Saints are expected to be the first team to score, leveraging their home advantage and attacking mindset. TNS have a history of starting games aggressively, aiming to establish control early on. Their attacking statistics, combined with Decic’s defensive record in European competitions, suggest that the home side will break the deadlock.

TNS’s strategy often involves pressing high and creating early scoring opportunities. Players like Brad Young and Adrian Cieslewicz are adept at capitalising on these chances. Decic’s defence, which has struggled against European opposition, is likely to be breached early in the game. Therefore, predicting TNS to score first aligns with their typical gameplay and the defensive weaknesses of their opponents.

Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target Over 6.5 for The New Saints

An innovative market to consider is The New Saints registering over 6.5 shots on target. TNS’s attacking style and their ability to generate scoring opportunities suggest they will test Decic’s goalkeeper frequently. Last season, TNS averaged a high number of shots per game, and their attacking players are known for their accuracy and persistence in the final third.

Decic’s defensive struggles in European competition indicate that they may allow numerous shots on goal. TNS, playing at home and looking to make a strong start to their European campaign, are expected to dominate possession and create multiple chances.

This should result in a high number of shots on target, making the over 6.5 shots on target market a promising option. The combination of TNS’s attacking capabilities and Decic’s defensive vulnerabilities supports this prediction comprehensively.

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