Rangers vs Panathinaikos: Champions League Qualifying Showdown Analyzed
Previewing Rangers' high-stakes Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos, featuring historical rivalry insights, team rankings comparison, and road to group stage qualification.
Champions League Qualifying Round Preview
Fixture Details
Rangers will host Greek giants Panathinaikos at Ibrox Stadium on July 22/23 in the Champions League second qualifying round first leg, with the return fixture scheduled for July 29/30 at Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium.
European Pedigree Comparison
- Rangers: 25th in UEFA rankings (2023)
- Panathinaikos: 111th in UEFA rankings
- Last Champions League group stage appearance: Rangers (2022), Panathinaikos (2010/11)
| Historical Head-to-Head | Season | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003/04 | Champions League | PAN 3-1 RAN (H) | |
| RAN 1-1 PAN (A) | |||
| 2007/08 | UEFA Cup | RAN 0-0 PAN (H) | |
| PAN 1-1 RAN (A)* |
*Rangers advanced via away goals
Tactical Context
- Russell Martin's competitive debut as Rangers manager
- Panathinaikos' new signings: 3 summer acquisitions
- Key battle: Rangers' defensive organization vs Panathinaikos' counter-attacking style
Qualification Pathway
- Winners advance to 3rd qualifying round (August 6-13)
- Potential playoff round (August 20-28)
- Group stage qualification requires 4 total victories
Regional Implications
- Scotland's coefficient ranking: 9th in UEFA
- Greece's coefficient ranking: 15th in UEFA
- Victory crucial for both nations' European standing
Recent Form Guide
- Rangers: Europa League quarter-finalists (2022/23)
- Panathinaikos: Conference League last 16 (2022/23)
Broadcast Information
- UK: Viaplay Sports
- Greece: Cosmote Sport
- Global: UEFA.tv (selected regions)
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