The New Saints 0-2 FC Copenhagen

Copenhagen took control of their Champions League second qualifying round tie against The New Saints with a comfortable win at Park Hall.

Pieros Sotiriou gave the Danish side the lead, turning in Karlo Bartolec's low cross into the near post.

Sotiriou was involved for the visitors' second goal after being brought down for a penalty by Keston Davies, with Robert Skov converting the spot kick.

The Welsh side now face an uphill task to qualify in the away leg on 31 July.

Copenhagen, who won the 2018-19 Danish Superliga by 11 points clear of second placed Midtjylland, showed their pedigree and goal attempts were few and far between for the home side, although Aeron Edwards, Adrian Cieslewicz and Jamie Mullan had half-chances.

The Danes - who have reached the group stages on four occasions - are now favourites to advance to the third qualifying round by wrapping up the tie at their Parken Stadium next Wednesday.

Saints progressed to the second qualifying round after a 3-2 aggregate win over Kosovan side Feronikeli.

The New Saints" Aeron Edwards and Copenhagen goalkeeper Sten Grytebust battle for the ball

New Saints manager Scott Ruscoe told BBC Sport Wales:

"They're a good side but they didn't really carve us open on numerous occasions, got the penalty which we'll have to have a look at again.

"I don't really want to do too much commenting in case it's a blatant penalty, but I think he's [Sotiriou] had his chance [to shoot], missed it and how often would you get the ball brought back and the penalty?

"Really it's hard enough as it is, they don't need the ref trying to help them out."