Jagiellonia Białystok’s captain Taras Romanczuk and head coach Adrian Siemieniec have shared their perspectives ahead of the club’s upcoming Europa League third qualifying round match against Rangers.

Romanczuk, a Polish international who has been with Jagiellonia for over 12 years, expressed enthusiasm about facing a British team in European competition for the first time. He recounted some lighthearted stories involving former club centre-back Yuki Kobayashi, who played for Celtic and was reportedly reluctant to cross the river dividing Celtic and Rangers fan territories in Glasgow. Romanczuk acknowledged the challenge posed by Rangers, describing them as a top-tier opponent. “Both teams are at a similar stage of preparation, we’ve played one more match. The weather won’t help because it’s hot, but that’s how it is in Białystok—either very hot or very cold,” he said. He stressed that tactical discipline and physical strength in duels would be decisive factors in the tie.

Coach Siemieniec also highlighted the difficulty of the encounter, noting the pressure that comes with facing a club of Rangers’ stature. He confirmed that Jagiellonia would be missing key players, including midfielder Bernardo Vital due to suspension and winger Kamil Jozwiak because of injury. Siemieniec described Rangers as an intense and physical side, particularly dangerous in set-piece situations and aerial challenges. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Jagiellonia’s own mentality and tactical plan in order to compete effectively. “We saw a clear direction in terms of the kinds of players this team is built on, as well as the specifics of football based on intense, physical play. That’s where the threats to us come from too. We should expect danger on set pieces, intensity in pressing, as well as a team that feels great in the air and in duels,” Siemieniec said. “We can’t lose our mentality, our idea, because it’ll be really hard to compete with Rangers.”

Both Romanczuk and Siemieniec expressed determination to make the tie competitive, aware of the challenges posed by facing one of Scotland’s most celebrated clubs. The matches are set to provide a significant test for Jagiellonia as they pursue progress in the Europa League qualifiers.