Rangers Draw Greek Giants in Champions League Second Qualifying Round
Rangers have officially learned their fate in the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round, with Greek giants Panathinaikos set to stand in their way as the quest for a coveted group stage berth begins.
The Ibrox side, now under the direction of manager Russell Martin, face a challenging test in Panathinaikos, a club steeped in European history and eager to return to prominence on the continental stage. The tie promises to be a stern early examination of Rangersโ European credentials and their summer recruitment efforts.
The two-legged encounter will commence in late July, with exact dates and venues to be confirmed shortly by UEFA. The first leg will be vital for Rangers, who will aim to establish an early advantage, whether at home or away, to carry into the decisive return fixture. With the stakes incredibly high, the pressure will be on Clement and his squad to deliver a strong performance against an experienced and tactically astute Greek outfit.
Panathinaikos, who finished second in the Greek Super League last season, boast a squad with technical flair and a strong defensive foundation. They have consistently challenged for honours domestically and are no strangers to European football, having previously reached the Champions League final in 1971 and regularly appearing in continental competitions since.
For Rangers, progression past Panathinaikos would move them one step closer to the lucrative Champions League group stagesโa goal that brings not only prestige but also significant financial rewards. Clement has already begun reshaping the squad during the off-season, and this clash will offer an early glimpse into how well the new additions have gelled with the established core.
The last time Rangers faced Greek opposition in European competition was against Olympiacos in friendly action, but this competitive meeting with Panathinaikos will evoke memories of past continental battles that defined the clubโs European pedigree.
Supporters will be hoping the Light Blues can channel the spirit of recent successful campaigns, including the run to the Europa League final in 2022, and navigate a path through what is expected to be a tight and tactical contest. With a place in the third qualifying round at stake, every detail will matterโfrom tactical discipline to composure under pressure.
As anticipation builds, Rangers will now turn their attention to intense preparations, knowing the road to the Champions League proper starts hereโwith a formidable Panathinaikos standing in the way.