Alessia Russo Arsenal Women 2023-24Getty

Nightmare! Arsenal handed brutal draw in first round of Women's Champions League qualifying just 12 months after shock exit at same stage

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Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Arsenal to face Rangers in first UWCL qualifier
  • Likely to face Atletico in second match
  • Must win both to reach second qualifying round
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Gunners finished third in the Women's Super League last season, meaning they need to start from the earliest stage of Europe's premier competition. That was the case 12 months ago, too, and Jonas Eidevall's side fell at the first hurdle when they lost to Paris FC.

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  • Beth Mead Arsenal Women 2023-24Getty

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Arsenal will hope history doesn't repeat itself when they compete in the same stage in September, though they have been given a very tricky draw. First up, the Gunners will face Scottish side Rangers and if they come through that, Spanish giants Atletico Madrid or Norwegian outfit Rosenborg will be waiting in a match where the prize will be a place in the second round of UWCL qualifying.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Plenty of other big clubs were involved in Friday's qualifying draw, including Ajax, Benfica, Twente and Celtic. Eintracht Frankfurt vs Sporting CP is a particularly tasty draw and perhaps the pick of the first round matches.

  • Leah Williamson Arsenal Women 2023-24Getty

    WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL

    The Gunners will take on Rangers on September 4, with the winner to face either Atletico or Rosenborg on September 7 for a place in the second qualifying round.