Rangers Face Panathinaikos in Champions League Qualifiers

Rangers face a challenging start to their Champions League qualifying campaign against Greek Super League runners-up Panathinaikos, marking new head coach Russell Martin's first competitive European match. Panathinaikos boss Rui Vitoria admitted difficulties in preparing for Rangers due to limited information on Martin's new side but expressed confidence in his team's readiness. Rangers have made eight new signings, though some key players like Thelo Aasgaard will miss the first leg at Ibrox, adding to the pressure on Martin's squad. Former player Ikonomou believes Panathinaikos holds a talent advantage and a 70 percent chance of progressing, citing the Greek side's managerial continuity compared to Rangers' recent changes. The winner will face Servette, who must first overcome Viktoria Plzen, in the third qualifying round, with the Champions League and Europa League qualifiers scheduled in early to mid-August. Both teams confront the early-season challenges of cohesion and form, with the intimidating atmosphere of Ibrox providing a significant factor in the upcoming tie.