Pedro Chirivella Confident of Panathinaikos Victory Over Rangers in Champions League Qualifiers
New Panathinaikos signing Pedro Chirivella has made a bold prediction ahead of the club’s crucial UEFA Champions League qualifiers against Rangers, expressing full confidence that the Greek side can overcome their Scottish opponents and move closer to the group stage.
Chirivella, a former Liverpool midfielder, joined Panathinaikos this summer as one of three new arrivals, alongside Greek international Georgios Kyriakopoulos and Algerian defender Ahmed Touba. His arrival is seen as a significant boost to the Athens-based club’s European ambitions, with the Champions League being a key factor in the 27-year-old Spaniard’s decision to sign.
“The fact that Panathinaikos are in the Champions League played a very big part in my decision to come here,” Chirivella explained. “We have two very big matches against Rangers coming up and we need to be 100 per cent ready to play them. I am sure we have enough in the team to get through.”
Panathinaikos are set to meet Rangers in the second qualifying round of the Champions League next month, with the second leg taking place in Athens — a potential advantage for the Greek side. Chirivella’s confidence has added an extra layer of anticipation to a tie that promises high intensity and drama, with both clubs eager to return to Europe’s elite competition.
Chirivella, who made his Liverpool debut under current Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers, is no stranger to high-pressure matches. His experience in top-tier European football could prove vital in guiding Panathinaikos through a tough qualifying path.
“It was an easy decision to sign here because everyone knows Panathinaikos are a very big team,” he said. “I wanted to come here, I have big ambitions to play in the Champions League.”
The midfielder’s arrival signals a clear statement of intent from Panathinaikos, who are aiming to build on last season’s domestic campaign and make a deep run in European competition.
The club’s supporters will be encouraged by the enthusiasm and ambition of their new recruits, particularly Chirivella’s determination to deliver results on the continental stage.
Rangers, for their part, are expected to pose a stern challenge. Having competed regularly in European competitions over recent years, the Scottish side brings experience and a strong squad into the tie. However, with the passionate backing of their home fans and renewed belief under manager Ivan Jovanović, Panathinaikos are preparing for a serious push.
As the countdown begins to the much-anticipated encounter, Chirivella’s confident outlook may well set the tone for a memorable Champions League qualifier.