It’s back to the European stage for The New Saints on Thursday (December 19), as we take on Slovenia’s NK Celje on MD6 in the league phase of the UEFA Conference League.

It’s a huge game for both sides, with the current Slovenian PrvaLiga champions in 25th place in the Conference League table with four points, while the champions of Wales sit in 32nd and one point behind.

There’s still everything to play for as far as both are concerned and, while the odds of qualifying are slim for The New Saints, nevertheless if we win and results elsewhere go our way then we can still make the cut.

To be at the point where, as we enter the final game in the league phase, we are still in with a mathematical chance of progression, is testament to the hard work and commitment that players and staff alike have put in to get this far.

Celje won the Slovenian league last season for the second time, by a margin of twelve-points over Maribor. It’s a ten-team division, with everyone playing 36 games during the course of the season.

Birthed a year before the League of Wales began life, as Slovenia declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, the PrvaLiga also came into being.

Celje’s four points in the league phase to date have come courtesy of a 5-1 win against İstanbul Başakşehir Futbol Kulübü (Turkey) and a thrilling 3-3 draw with Jagiellonia Białystok (Poland).

The New Saints’ three points are as a result of beating Astana (Kazakhstan) 2-0.

The officials for Thursday’s game are all from Switzerland: Lukas Fähndrich (referee), Guillaume Maire and Nicolas Müller (assistant referees) and Nico Gianforte (fourth official). The Video Assistant Referees are also from Switzerland: Lionel Tschudi  and Johannes von Mandach.

Kick-off is 8.00 p.m. (UK time) and the game – at Stadion Celje – will be broadcast live on TNT Sports, while TNS Radio will be broadcasting live commentary via our Facebook page and website.