Second thoughts

The draw for the Preliminary Round of the Europa League took place yesterday, meaning the countdown is well and truly on until the First and Second Qualifying phases are ratified.

Cliftonville’s involvement in the competition commences next Wednesday and, in recognition of the Reds being involved in two draws at UEFA Headquarters, our dedicated Europa League guide has been updated to reflect all potential opponents across the opening stages.

Though Unseeded in the First Qualifying Round, Barry Gray’s side could be Seeded for the following phase, depending on who Cliftonville are paired with during initial proceedings.

By clicking here, supporters can take a detailed look at how yesterday’s Preliminary Round draw (featuring teams from UEFA’s eight lowest-ranked nations) will affect the First Qualifying Round which, in turn, provides a path for 47 sides to progress to the Second Qualifying Round, which will also be drawn next week.

Europa League 2018/19
Tuesday, June 12: Preliminary Round (Main Path) draw
Featuring teams from Andorra, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Kosovo, Lithuania, Malta, San Marino and Wales

Tuesday, June 19: Second Qualifying Round (Champions Path) draw
Featuring teams eliminated from the First Qualifying Round of the Champions League

Wednesday, June 20: First and Second Qualifying Round (Main Path) draws
Cliftonville enter the competition at this stage, as outlined here