‘Extreme’ Panathinaikos v Rangers weather update issued for Champions League clash
Rangers will be looking to make it to the next round of the Champions League qualifiers when they take on Panathinaikos on Wednesday night.
Russell Martin guided his side to an impressive 2-0 victory in the first leg at Ibrox and will be hoping to seal qualification this week.
The Gers boss may look to make a few changes from the first leg to give his side the best chance of avoiding defeat.
Athens expected to see extreme heat for Champions League qualifier
STV Sport report that temperatures are expected to be in excess of 30C in Athens for the clash.
Warnings of “extreme” heat have been sent out as it could rise to 31C when the two sides play each other.
The positive is that the players will not be playing in the intense sun, as sunset is at 8:36 pm local time.
Should Martin manage to navigate this challenge, his side will take on Viktoria Plzen or Servette in the third qualifying round.
Rangers need to stick to basics and get the job done
Martin will likely emphasise sticking to tactical basics to secure victory against Panathinaikos in the Champions League qualifier.
With a 2-0 lead from the first leg, his strategy focuses on maintaining discipline and simplicity.
| Apps | Goals | Assists |
| 43 | 7 | 1 |
His approach prioritises ball possession and playing out from the back, which suits the Rangers‘ strengths, including players like Joe Rothwell, who excels in maintaining possession and enabling transitions.
By reinforcing fundamentals, Gers can manage the hostile Athens atmosphere and Panathinaikos’ need to chase the game.
Martin will stress resilience and character, as shown by Findlay Curtis and Djeidi Gassama’s impactful goals.
This straightforward, possession-based game plan, combined with the Ibrox outfit’s strong away record in Greece, should be enough to advance.
A strong early start is important and the visitors need to be wary of not getting carried away or overwhelmed by the occasion, as it could have detrimental effects.
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