Shamrock Rovers paired with Hibernians of Malta in Champions League

Shamrock Rovers will play Hibernians of Malta in the first round of Champions League qualifying following the draw in Nyon this morning.

The Hoops were seeded going into the draw but still had the likes of Lech Poznan as potential opponents.

Hibernians were the weakest side on paper they could have faced and the Hoops emerged first from the pot, followed by the Maltese champions.

Their best-known clash with an Irish side was overcoming Shelbourne two decades ago.

Last year they saw off opposition from San Marino in the first round of the Europa Conference League before exiting to Riga FC of Latvia in the second round.

Northern Irish champions Linfield also had fortune on their side for the draw.

As an unseeded club, they were paired with Welsh champions The New Saints, avoiding more difficult opposition like Bodo/Glimt and Malmo FC.

The ties will be played on 5/6 July and 12/13 July.

Derry City and Sligo Rovers will be in the first round qualifying draw for the Europa Conference League at 1pm.