It will be an historic first for The New Saints on Tuesday, August 1, when we play our first game in the nation of Luxembourg.

Although TNS has competed in numerous countries across the footballing continent, since first qualifying for UEFA competition in 1996-1997, the landlocked Grand Duchy of Luxembourg – to give it its full title – is one that we have avoided a pairing with up till now.

The Europa Conference League second qualifying round first leg game on Tuesday just gone, ended with the tie delicately balanced, as Rory Holden’s superb strike from outside the penalty area cancelling the FC Swift Hesperange opener.

With both sides representing their respective countries as champions, while The New Saints has dominated domestic Welsh football with fifteen titles since the inception of a national league in 1992, last season’s victory was a first for Swift Hesperange.

Based in the town that bears their name, Hesperange play their games at Stade Alphonse Theis, a stadium named after a prominent local politician.

The capacity is 3,058 although that includes standing areas as well as seating.

The appointed officials are from Malta: Ishmael Barbara (referee), Roberto Vella and Duncan Spencer (assistant referees) and Darryl Agius (fourth official).

The kick-off time on Tuesday (at Stade de Luxembourg) is 7.00 p.m. (UK time) and you can follow the action via TNS Radio. There is a link on the home page of our website, as well as our Facebook page for those who have an account.