Dundalk v Qarabag - where can I watch it and what do I need to know?

Vinny Perth faces the toughest test of fledgling career as Dundalk head coach when the Lilywhites welcome Europa League heavyweights Qarabag to Oriel Park (kick-off 7.45pm).

Dundalk saw off the challenge of Riga last week – just about – as they triumphed 6-5 on penalties in Latvia after both legs finished scoreless.

Gary Rogers was the hero with a penalty save in sudden death, allowing Sean Hoare the opportunity to dispatch the winning penalty.

As jubilant as the champions were to have advanced to the second round, they will be keenly aware it gets considerably more difficult from here.

Qarabag’s dominance of Azerbaijani football has been even more total than Dundalk’s over the past few years – they’ve won six straight titles – and have blazed a trail in Europe.

They’ve qualified for the group stages in four of the last five years, the only deviation being the 2017-18 season, when they become the first Azeri side to reach the Champions League groups.

They drew home and away with Atlético Madrid that year and will be keen to get back to the group stages following a disappointing finish in the Europa League last season.

What time is the match?

Kick-off is 7.45pm.

Where is the match?

Oriel Park, Dundalk.

Who is the referee?

Bartosz Frankowski of Poland is the referee.

Are there tickets available?

Tickets are all sold out.

Where can I watch it?

The game will be shown live in the Republic of Ireland on Eir Sport 1 with coverage beginning at 7.40pm.

Can I stream it online?

Eir broadband, landline and TV customers can avail of Eir Sport’s online streaming service here.

Who are they key players to watch?

It’s hard to look past Michael Duffy for Dundalk. The winger’s direct running and trickery was sorely missed in Riga, when he was unable to travel due to his partner being in labour.

With the Lilywhites having failed to hit the net in either game against Riga, that extra bit of creativity will be crucial if they’re to stand a chance of breaking down group stage regulars Qarabag.

Take your pick from Qarabag, really, but the main who makes their quick-passing game tick from midfield is the experienced Brazilian-born midfielder Richard Almeida.

He was the backbone of the club’s rise since 2012 and, although he left for Astana last year, he returned on loan and continues to dictate play from the base.

Team news:

Read Niall Newberry’s match preview here.

Betting:

Dundalk 2/1; Draw 17/10; Qarabag FK 5/4.