Hoops face tricky task in Europa League play-off

Shamrock Rovers will play Qarabag FK (Azerbaijan) or Ferencvaros (Hungary) in the play-off round of the Europa League if they can overcome Shkupi of Macedonia in the third stage of qualifying.

In the complicated draw procedure, the Hoops emerged late from their pot and as such knew they would face a Champions League second-round loser, rather than a designated team from the second tier competition.

Qarabag competed in the Conference League group stages last year and have played in the Europa League three times.

Ferencvaros are group stage regulars and saw off Slovan Bratislava, who defeated Shamrock Rovers in 2021, to progress this year.

The loser of the tie will meet Stephen Bradley's side or Shkupi, starting the first leg at home.

The Premier Division leaders will take their place in the Conference League play-off draw at lunchtime, which will become a factor if they lose the Shkupi tie which begins on Thursday in Tallaght.

Sligo Rovers and St Patrick's Athletic will also be in the draw, as the likes of Fiorentina and Villarreal await.

Europa League play-off draw:

Qarabag FK (Azerbaijan) or Ferencvarosi TC (Hungary) v Shamrock Rovers/Shkupi (North Macedonia)

We need your consent to load this YouTube contentWe use YouTube to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content.Manage Preferences