Rangers vs. Panathinaikos Tips and Odds – 22/07/2025

• Date: Tuesday, 22 July 2025
• Venue: Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland
• Fixture: UEFA Champions League Qualification, Second Round

Preview

The Champions League qualifiers bring a classic European night at Ibrox as Rangers host Panathinaikos in what promises to be a fiery, high-stakes encounter. This match marks the beginning of the competitive season for both teams, but it’s especially significant for Rangers as it is the first official game under new head coach Russell Martin. The anticipation among the fans is palpable, with Ibrox set to be rocking as the Scottish side seeks an advantage before the return leg in Athens.

Rangers have had a busy transfer window, bringing in fresh faces like Emmanuel Fernandez, Thelo Aasgaard, and Djeidi Gassama, hoping these new signings can gel quickly and bring a spark to the team. Their latest competitive outing was a 2-2 draw away at Hibernian, with Cyriel Dessers and Nicolas Raskin finding the net—a positive attacking sign but somewhat offset by defensive lapses. Panathinaikos, meanwhile, recently wrapped up a friendly victory over Westerlo, but their pre-season preparations have been overshadowed by a serious knee injury to important player Giorgos Kyriakopoulos, while top scorer Fotis Ioannidis is also ruled out.

Injuries and suspensions look set to play a key role in the tie. For Rangers, there are concerns about the fitness of John Souttar and Hamza Igamane, both of whom will undergo late assessments, while Neraysho Kasanwirjo remains sidelined with a knee issue. Panathinaikos are nursing multiple casualties—aside from Kyriakopoulos and Ioannidis, Bakasetas and Schenkeveld are also confirmed absentees, meaning coach Rui Vitória will need to rethink his plans.

Recent form hints at a tight contest. Rangers have looked solid domestically, finishing the last campaign with a win over Dundee United and scoring freely in their friendlies. Panathinaikos ended their league season second in Greece and have shown excellent away form, but a 1-0 defeat to Olympiacos in their last competitive match suggests vulnerability under pressure. Both sides are desperate for a positive result before the all-important second leg in Greece.

Key Players to Watch

• Rangers:
  • Cyriel Dessers: Striker in form after a goal against Hibernian.
  • Nicolas Raskin: Scored in the last outing, expected to dictate midfield.
  • Emmanuel Fernandez: New signing, likely to play a defensive anchor role.
• Panathinaikos:
  • Andraz Sporar: Set to shoulder the attacking responsibility in the absence of Ioannidis.
  • Tin Jedvaj: Experience in European ties will be crucial at the back.
  • Daniel Mancini: Creative spark, important in transitions.

Prediction

With home advantage, a buzzing Ibrox crowd, and Rangers keen to impress their new boss, the Scottish side start as favourites. However, Panathinaikos are seasoned European campaigners with a pragmatic approach, even if they are weakened by absences. Expect Rangers to start fast, dominate possession, and create more chances. That said, Panathinaikos have the quality to capitalize on any slip-ups, so a close game is anticipated.
Prediction: Rangers 2-1 Panathinaikos.

Betting Markets & Odds

Enjoy the action—and whether you’re shouting for the Gers or the Greens, get ready for a memorable Champions League night in Glasgow!