Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League qualifying match.
Russell Martin is set to make his managerial debut for Rangers in a crucial Champions League qualifier against Panathinaikos. The former Southampton head coach will be looking to harness the energy of the Ibrox crowd, though the absence of key defender Dujon Sterling could allow the visitors greater freedom in the final third.
Rangers
After a disappointing domestic season, Rangers finished well behind Celtic in the Scottish Premiership, ending the campaign 17 points off the pace. Despite scoring 80 goals across 38 matches, Rangers were eliminated from the UEFA Europa League at the quarter-finals stage, losing 0:2 on aggregate to Athletic Club — a result that ultimately led to a change in management. In a recent friendly against Club Brugge KV (2:2), the squad displayed their trademark high pressing, coming from two goals down to earn a draw.
Panathinaikos
Panathinaikos will be without Serbian international Filip Mladenović due to suspension, which could leave them exposed on the flank and vulnerable to conceding. Their recent friendlies have been open contests with numerous chances at both ends: although they fell short against Sporting Clube de Braga (1:2), goals from Adam Gnezda, Facundo Pellistri, and Adriano Bregou secured a 3:1 win over K.V.C. Westerlo. One lingering issue is their poor away form — in 2025, the club has recorded just one win in 11 official away matches.
Rangers vs Panathinaikos Prediction
Both squads boast considerable attacking quality, and a place in the Champions League group stage remains within reach. The market for “Both Teams to Score — Yes” appears well supported ahead of the showdown at Ibrox.
