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Irish clubs learn their Confer...

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Irish clubs learn their Conference League path


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The Irish clubs still in with a chance of qualifying for the Europa Conference League now know their path to the group stages.

The draws for the remaining rounds took place earlier today.

Shamrock Rovers, Dundalk and Bohemians all still harbour hopes of qualifying for the competition proper.

Rovers find themselves following the champions route, having captured the league title last season.

They will play the loser of the Europa League clash between Omonia Nicosia of Cyprus and Estonia's Flora Tallinn in the play-off round.

Stephen Bradley's charges must first overcome the challenge of Albania's Tueta.

The first leg of that encounter takes place on Thursday next at Tallaght Stadium.

The Hoops route looks significantly more negotiable than that of Bohemians and Dundalk.

Bohs have built up a real head of steam in the competition and overcame Dudelange in the last round in a decisive fashion.

The Aviva Stadium hosts the first leg of their third-round tie with PAOK on Tuesday.

The Greek side boast a strong squad, including Shinji Kagawa.

8000 tickets for the match have already sold out.

Should Keith Long's men prolong their European journey, a potential date with Hibernian lies ahead.

They will face the winner of Hibs meeting with HNK Rijeka of Croatia if they reach the next round.

Dundalk also face a difficult task.

Vitesse Arnhem provide stiff opposition in round three, with Vinny Perth's side in The Netherlands for the first leg this Thursday.

A play-off with Belgian giants Anderlecht could be the reward if they can get through.

They've been drawn to play the winners of Anderlecht's tie with KF Laci of Albania.

Larne, meanwhile, could be set for a meeting with Tottenham.

The London club will meet the winner of their meeting with Pacos De Ferreira of Portugal.

In the Europa League draw, Celtic could meet AZ Alkmaar for a spot in the group stage.

The Glasgow club first have to get past Jablonec of the Czech Republic after their Champions League exit.

Rangers will meet Olympiacos or Ludogorets in the Champions League play-offs.

That's if they get past Malmo in their first qualifying tie.


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Bohemians Celtic Conference League Dundalk Europa League Football League Of Ireland Shamrock Rovers Soccer

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