Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
Rangers won the first leg 2:0 at home. Panathinaikos will have to go on the front foot here, and backed by their home crowd, they are expected to press from the very first minute. Rangers, meanwhile, are likely to rely on counter-attacks and transitional play.
Panathinaikos
There are notable issues in Panathinaikos' back line — they’ve conceded in three straight games, including friendlies. In the first leg, they maintained possession and tried to build through structured attacks, but the end product was lacking, with only four shots on target. However, they are traditionally strong and aggressive at home.
Rangers
Rangers looked composed in Glasgow, executing their press well, converting their chances, and staying solid defensively. Still, their away form tends to be less convincing. They’ll be without Dujon Sterling and Rabbi Matondo — two regulars on the flanks — though Tom Lawrence remains in excellent shape and capable of creating danger through individual brilliance.
Panathinaikos vs Rangers Prediction
Both sides are still undergoing transitions and are vulnerable at the back, yet both can create opportunities. Panathinaikos will need to open up, which will give Rangers space to exploit. Betting on a winner is risky, but both teams finding the net appears a strong possibility.
