The UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds 2024, a crucial phase for clubs aspiring to secure a spot in the prestigious group stage, are underway. The competition, which started on July 9, 2024, features knockout ties and will conclude with the play-off round on August 28, 2024. Teams are divided into two paths: the Champions Path for domestic league winners and the League Path for non-champions from higher-ranked leagues.
Match Results and Highlights – July 23, 2024
The second qualifying round featured several thrilling encounters. Here are the key fixtures:
- Apoel Nicosia vs. Petrocub-Hincesti: Result pending (match time: 5pm)
- Dynamo Kiev vs. FK Partizan: Result pending (match time: 6pm)
- Ferencvárosi TC vs. The New Saints: Result pending (match time: 6pm)
- FK Bodø/Glimt vs. Rīgas FS: Result pending (match time: 3pm)
- Lincoln Red Imps vs. FK Qarabağ: Result pending (match time: 4pm)
- Lugano vs. Fenerbahçe: Result pending (match time: 6.30pm)
- Malmö FF vs. KÍ Klaksvík: Result pending (match time: 5pm)
- Panevėžys vs. Jagiellonia Białystok: Result pending (match time: 3.30pm)
- Shamrock Rovers vs. Sparta Prague: Result pending (match time: 7pm)
- Steaua Bucharest vs. Maccabi Tel-Aviv: Result pending (match time: 5.30pm)
- UE Santa Coloma vs. FC Midtjylland: Result pending (match time: 6pm)
These fixtures are part of the second qualifying round, with return legs scheduled for the following week. The outcomes will determine which teams advance closer to the coveted group stage of the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League.
Teams to Watch and Rising Stars
This year’s qualifying rounds feature several young talents poised to make significant impacts in the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds 2024.
Ferencvárosi TC
Krisztián Lisztes, a promising 18-year-old midfielder known for his agility and critical goals, is one to watch. He is the son of the former Hungarian international of the same name and has already secured a move to Eintracht Frankfurt, highlighting his growing reputation.
RB Leipzig
Castello Lukeba, a 21-year-old French center-back, has already made a name for himself in the Bundesliga and the France national team. His defensive prowess will be crucial for Leipzig’s European ambitions.
IMT Novi Beograd
Miloš Luković, an 18-year-old forward on loan from Strasbourg, is known for his finishing skills and leadership qualities. Luković was named captain at just 17, showcasing his maturity and potential.
Brighton & Hove Albion
Yankuba Minteh, a 19-year-old winger, currently on loan at Feyenoord, has impressed with his pace and scoring ability. The Gambian international is expected to be a key player for Feyenoord in the qualifying rounds.
Club Brugge
Antonio Nusa, an 18-year-old Norwegian midfielder, is known for his dribbling and attacking prowess. Nusa has already earned caps for the Norway national team and is seen as one of the brightest young talents in the Belgian Pro League.
Notable Teams and Players
Apoel Nicosia
The Cypriot club features a mix of experienced players and youthful talent. Key players include Xavi Quintillà, a 27-year-old defender who recently joined from Alcorcon, and M. Meyer, a 28-year-old midfielder who moved from FC Luzern. Their squad also includes seasoned goalkeeper V. Belec and forward E. Fardou Ben Mohamed, adding depth and experience to their lineup.
FK Partizan
FK Partizan brings a strong lineup into the qualifying rounds with notable players like N. Nikolić, a seasoned attacker, and B. Natcho, a 35-year-old midfielder with a wealth of experience. The Serbian club also made strategic acquisitions, including N. Mujakić from Ankaragucu and A. Janković from Cukaricki, to bolster their squad.
The New Saints
Representing Wales, The New Saints feature a blend of experience and emerging talent. Key players include A. Cieślewicz, a 33-year-old attacker, and R. Brobbel, a 30-year-old midfielder. Their recent form has been impressive, with standout performances in both domestic and European competitions.
These players, among others, are set to showcase their talents on the European stage, with the hopes of leading their teams to the group stage of the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds 2024. As the qualifying rounds progress, football fans around the world will be keenly watching these rising stars.
