Larne, the champions of Northern Ireland, are set to face Lincoln Red Imps of Gibraltar in the Conference League qualifiers. The first leg on Thursday will see Larne defender Dan Bent make an emotional return to Gibraltar, where he previously played for Magpies, Manchester 62, and Lincoln Red Imps, earning 17 caps for the national team.
This tie offers a significant opportunity for both clubs. Two years ago, Larne defeated the Red Imps at this stage to reach the Conference League group stage, securing €2.6m in prize money. This sum is considered transformational for the club and its players, especially when compared to the approximately £50,000 for winning the Northern Irish league and £20,000 for winning the cup.
Larne began their European campaign this summer in the Champions League qualifiers, overcoming Tre Fiori of San Marino before being beaten 9-0 on aggregate by Red Star Belgrade. Following this, they dropped into the Europa League qualifiers, where they were narrowly defeated in extra time by Georgian club Iberia 1999.
Bent, who will make his 21st European appearance on Thursday, described the Red Star Belgrade game as "probably the biggest game in the club's history." He added, "I'll remember it for the rest of my life." Larne kicked off their title defence with a goalless draw at Coleraine over the weekend, and next week's second leg against Lincoln Red Imps will mark their 10th match in five competitions this season.