Prediction: Royale Union SG vs Rangers

Prediction: Rangers win

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The countdown to the start of the new domestic season is almost over as fans across Europe and beyond look forward to another year of chaos. Beyond that, however, there is also a lot of European football to work on with the return of UEFA Champions League qualifying. Today we are going to preview the first leg of the third round between Royale Union SG and Rangers.

Royal Union SG

It is always interesting to see a "new" face on the international scene and the Royale Union Saint-Gilloise certainly fits the bill in this regard. They managed to finish top of the regular season in Belgium last season before narrowly missing out on the championship, and based on their recent growth, we'd say they're going to be a pretty living dog in that tie. p > Rangers

Rangers missed out on the Scottish Premiership title last season, but at the same time managed to reach the UEFA Europa League final. Yes, they ultimately failed in their bid to lift the trophy, but that shouldn't take away from what they achieved - and by equal measure shouldn't distract them from the job at UCL. /p> Factors to consider The winners of this tie will advance to the play-off round, the last obstacle before the group stage. Union SG have won three, drawn and lost two of their last six games. Rangers have won four, drawn and lost one of their last six games. Union SG have scored eight goals and conceded three in their last six games. Rangers have scored 13 goals and conceded six in their last six games. Conclusion

Atmosphere is going to be the biggest thing Rangers have to overcome, but if they can calm the pace of play in the first 15 minutes and limit their opponents, they can build from the back. The Belgians are hard to break down at the back, so playing for a draw isn't the worst idea for the Scots, but we still think a lucky free-kick will give them the chance to snatch a 1- 0 to bring back to Glasgow. .

Prediction: Rangers win

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