Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Tough Draw in Europa League Third Qualifying Round

Maccabi Tel Aviv is preparing for the third qualifying round draw of the UEFA Europa League, with the list of potential opponents now narrowed down. The club, which holds the Israeli State Cup, could face several challenging teams on its path to the group stage of Europe's second-tier club competition.

If Maccabi Tel Aviv overcomes Sheriff Tiraspol, their possible opponents include the winner of the tie between Benfica, a former European champion, and Swiss club St. Gallen. Another option is the winner between Dutch side Twente, known for their attacking style, and Hungarian club Ferencváros, coached by Gabi Kanichovsky and a familiar opponent to Israeli teams with recent European experience. The third potential opponent is the winner of the match between Azerbaijani club Qarabağ, known for hosting matches under difficult conditions, and Bulgarian team CSKA Sofia.

The draw, announced by UEFA, has heightened anticipation at Maccabi Tel Aviv as they prepare for these potentially demanding fixtures. The club's coach, Kenny Melilla, and his squad face a mix of tough and more manageable challenges en route to the Europa League group stage.