Champions League QR2

A fun first qualifying round saw Shelbourne win the battle of Ireland with a 2-1 aggregate win over Linfield. The New Saints drop into the Conference after a 2-1 extra time defeat to Shkendija. FCSB scrapped through 4-3 over Inter Club d'Escaldes and Ludogorets sneaked past Dinamo Minsk after extra time.

The second qualifying round begins tomorrow and concludes next week, with the "League Path" beginning. This sees Rangers come up against Greece giants Panathinaikos. Also in this section are Red Bull Salzburg, who face Brann after competing in the Club World Cup. Viktoria Plzen vs Servette completes the League Path fixtures.

In the "Champions Path", Shelbourne have the tough task of Azerbaijan side Qarabag.
Lincoln Red Imps face Red Star Belgrade - one of two former champions in the draw. The other, FCSB face Shkendija.
RFS vs Malmo and Hamrun Spartans vs Dynamo Kyiv pits underdogs against historically big European clubs. FC Copenhagen vs Drita, Lech Poznan vs Breidablik and Noah vs Ferencvaros are among the other ties.


With a 3rd Q round and the play-off round still to come, it is a long journey for these teams but with a big prize of 8 Champions League league fixtures.