Macedonian champion Vardar suffered a heavy defeat in the first match of the Champions League qualifiers, losing 2-0 at the "Toše Proeski" National Arena in Skopje. Finnish champions KuPS deservedly secured the victory with goals from Magassa in the 45th minute and Armah in the 49th minute. Although the first half was characterized by cautious play and few chances, KuPS managed to break through Vardar's defensive block in the final minute before the break. In the second half, Vardar had one significant chance through Nikolov in the 73rd minute, but failed to change the scoreline. The hosts' hopes for a comeback were further diminished in the 76th minute when Bosančić was sent off after receiving two yellow cards. Vardar now has only a theoretical chance of advancing in the return leg in Kuopio.