Celtic and Rangers learn Champions League play-off matches

Celtic and Rangers have discovered their potential opponents in the Champions League play-offs.

Celtic and Rangers prepare for Champions League play-off matches

Celtic has found out they will compete against either Kairat or Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League play-offs, following the UEFA draw in Nyon. This marks another step towards the group stages, where they aim to improve upon last season's narrow exit against Bayern Munich. The first leg will occur at Parkhead. Meanwhile, Rangers, after securing a position in the third round by drawing with AEK Athens, now faces Viktoria Plzen on August 5 and 12. If they advance, they could meet either RB Salzburg or Club Brugge for a chance to qualify for the group stages for the first time since 2022. In a notable rule change, both teams are permitted to postpone their Scottish Premiership match scheduled around the play-off leg dates.

The Champions League play-offs not only serve as a continuing opportunity for Celtic and Rangers to showcase their talents on a European stage, but they also highlight a growing trend: the increasing importance of success in these tournaments for club finances. As teams compete for both prestige and revenue, the stakes grow higher. For Celtic, recovering from the disappointment of last season's exit is crucial. Rangers, too, seek to secure their place back in the Champions League, with the potential financial implications that accompany any success. Both clubs must navigate these challenges carefully, as fans await the outcome with considerable anticipation.

Highlights

Success in these play-offs can reshape the future for both clubs.