Hoops and Saints learn potential play-off opponents

The path to European group stage qualification for Shamrock Rovers has become clearer following the play-off round draws for the Europa League and Conference League this afternoon.

The Hoops begin the third round Europa tie with Slovenian champion Celje on Thursday, knowing victory would see them through to at least the outright Conference competition and prize money of over €3m.

If they do progress in the tie beginning this week, they will face Malmo FF of Sweden or Greek outfit PAOK FC in the Europa play-off for even more prestige and prizemoney.

It's a tough draw for the Hoops. PAOK's most recent tussle with an Irish side saw them overcome Bohemians in 2021 while they are regulars in the group phases.

If Stephen Bradley's side lose to Celje, they will face the winner of the FC Ordabasy of Kazakhstan and FC Pyunik from Armenia in the Conference play-off.

That was one of the trickier draws for the Irish champions, particularly with travel time included.

St. Patrick's Athletic will face either FC Iberia 1999 Tbilisi (Georgia) or Istanbul Basaksehir (Turkey) if they progress to the play-off for the UEFA Conference League.

The Saints meet Sabah from Azerbaijan in a tie beginning in Tallaght Stadium on Thursday in the third round.

Basaksehir reached the last 16 of the Conference League last year.

Europa League play-off round draw:

Winner of Malmo FF (Sweden) and PAOK (Greece) v Winner of Celje (Slovenia) v Shamrock Rovers

Conference League play-off round draw:

Winner of FC Ordabasy (Kazakhstan) and FC Pyunik (Armenia) v Loser of Celje (Slovenia) and Shamrock Rovers

Winner of St Patrick's Athletic and Sabah v Winner of FC Iberia 1999 Tbilisi (Georgia) and Istanbul Basaksehir (Turkey)