Hughes expects tough tie

City boss predicts Cypriot challenge

Last updated: 29th August 2008

manchester city mark hughes west ham

Hughes: Eager to stay in Europe

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Manchester City manager Mark Hughes expects another stern test after being drawn against Omonia Nicosia in the first round of the Uefa Cup.

The Blues needed penalties to beat Danish side FC Midtjylland on Thursday and scrape through the second qualifying round.

City now face Cypriot opposition as they bid to make it into the group stage and Hughes believes it is another tough draw given Omonia overcame European regulars AEK Athens to set up their first-round clash.

"I did tell everybody before the last tie that I felt we had the worse draw because they were an accomplished team and I think they showed that," said Hughes.

Delighted

"In the end we got the result that we wanted. We had a few scares along the way but we were in the draw this morning and we were delighted to be there.

"We face another difficult tie in the Cypriot team, who knocked out AEK Athens in the last round.

"There's no easy games in Europe these days so we'll have to be on our mettle again, but we're going to enjoy it.

"European football is something this club needs and we're going to stay in the competition for as long as we can."