Rangers Progress Champions League Qualifying With Panathinaikos Draw

Rangers advanced to the third qualifying round of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League after a 1-1 draw with Panathinaikos in Athens, securing a 3-1 aggregate victory. Despite Panathinaikos dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Rangers' goalkeeper Jack Butland made several crucial saves to keep the Scottish side in control. Filip Duricic gave Panathinaikos the lead early in the second half, but substitute Djeidi Gassama quickly equalized, maintaining Rangers' aggregate advantage and showcasing his impact as a summer signing. Rangers' defense held firm under pressure to secure a promising start for manager Russell Martin. The team will next face either Servette or Viktoria Plzen, with the first leg scheduled at Ibrox in early August, aiming for a spot in the Champions League play-off round. This victory marks a significant step in Rangers' European campaign amid a period of substantial change at the club.