The New Saints’ Champions League journey ended on a sour note — not only due to a last-gasp 2-1 extra-time loss to KF Shkendija in North Macedonia, but also because of an alleged incident of racist abuse that cast a dark shadow over the night.
Following the dramatic conclusion of the tie in Skopje, TNS forward Aramide Oteh was reportedly subjected to racist abuse by a member of the home crowd, leaving the 26-year-old visibly distressed.
“He is in tears – that doesn't happen for no reason,” said Saints head coach Craig Harrison.
“It's clearly what's been said and done. Obviously that's unacceptable. We will be reporting that.
“For a fan to speak to anybody like that is an absolute disgrace and let's hope the culprit gets a fair punishment and is dealt with.”
The incident, which occurred after Oteh entered the match as a substitute in extra time, prompted a strong response from the Welsh champions.
"The New Saints FC strongly and unequivocally condemn the racist abuse directed at Aramide Oteh by a member of the home crowd following the conclusion of [Tuesday's] Uefa Champions League first qualifying round match against KF Shkendija," read an official club statement.
"There is absolutely no place for racism – either in football or in society. Everyone at the club is offering their full support to Aramide and stand firmly by him.
"The New Saints are proud to support UEFA's #NoToRacism campaign and remain committed to promoting equality, respect and inclusion both on and off the pitch."
Uefa has yet to make an official comment but is expected to assess the referee and delegate reports in the coming days before deciding whether disciplinary action will be taken.
Shkendija have also not released a formal statement, though the club has indicated it will consult security personnel and eyewitnesses to understand what happened.
Oteh, a London-born player who joined TNS in 2024 after spells in the English Football League with QPR, Bradford City, and Crawley Town among others, was visibly shaken after the match.
The racist abuse allegation marred what was already a painful night for TNS on the pitch.
After a 0-0 draw in the first leg at Park Hall, they had fought hard to stay in the contest, with Jordan Williams cancelling out Fabrice Tamba’s opener.
However, a cruel own goal from Jack Bodenham just minutes from a potential penalty shootout sealed their elimination.
There had been moments of promise — Ben Wilson had a goal ruled out for offside and VAR reversed a controversial penalty decision against TNS — but in the end, the late heartbreak and the off-pitch incident overshadowed the football.
The Saints now turn their focus to the UEFA Conference League qualifiers, where they will face Differdange of Luxembourg, hoping to bounce back from both defeat and adversity with renewed strength and unity.
