TNS challenged to continue Welsh football's success in Champions League

TNS will face the winners of Rosenborg or IFK Norrköping if they win or earn a score draw at Cypriot outfit APOEL Nicosia on Tuesday.

The first leg of the second qualifying round tie ended 0-0 at Park Hall.

Both possible third round qualifying opponents are current league title holders; Rosenborg are the Norwegian champions while Norrköping are top dogs in Sweden..

And Ian Williams, the Saints' chief operating officer, wants his side to carry on the wave of euphoria launched by Wales' performance in reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2016.

"Football is on a high with the success of the national team, so hopefully we can continue that with our exploits in the Champions League," said Williams.

"It's a great opportunity for us to progress. We've played decent teams in the past such as Legia Warsaw, Helsingborgs and Anderlecht and we're much more savvy and experienced.

"So hopefully that will stand us in good stead for the next round if we get through."

However, Williams stressed all the Saints' efforts are focused on getting through Tuesday's tie first – and repeating their 1-0 away success to crack Hungarian outfit Videoton last season.

"Every focus is on Tuesday's game which is going to be a different type to the one here," he said.

"Hopefully we can get a decent result out in Cyprus – similar to the one we got in Hungary last year when we won, but went out on away goals.

"We gave a great performance last Tuesday which has given us the opportunity in the second leg and the draw is a great incentive because we've got two very good sides with good European pedigree.

"Rosenborg more so than Norrkoping have a history of competing in European competition."

Rosenborg are favourites to go through after winning the first leg 3-1, with the second leg next Wednesday.

The Welsh Premier League champions were the first tie to be drawn in yesterday's draw in Geneva.

Tuesday's game, which kicks off at 6pm, will be shown live on Welsh channel S4C.

And sadly for Williams, he will be watching the game at home, rather than supporting the team from the stands 'live'.

"I wasn't at the draw - it was the first one I've missed - and I won't be at the game as my leg is not too good and I can't fly," said the TNS supremo.

All third qualifying round ties will be played July 26 or 27 and August 2 or 3.