Shelbourne and Shamrock Rovers learn Europa Conference League opponents

Some brilliant ties here!

Shelbourne beat Linfield over two legs, while Rovers squeezed past Portuguese side Santa Clara, meaning Ireland will have two sides in a European group phase for the first time ever.

Joey O'Brien's Shels have an intriguing draw, taking on Troy Parrott's Alkmaar away, while welcoming Premier League side Crystal Palace to Tolka Park.

Rovers, who were in the Europa Conference League last season, will host Shakhtar in a tough draw, while travelling to AEK Athens and Sparta Praha.

The matches will be played on October 2, October 23, November 6, November 27, December 11 and December 18, with exact fixtures to be announced in due course.

Shelbourne will play:

• Alkmaar (A)
• Crystal Palace (H)
• Celje (A)
• Drita (H)
• Shkendija (A)
• Hacken (H)

Shamrock Rovers will play:

• Shakhtar (H)
• Sparta Praha (A)
• Celje (H)
• AEK Athens (A)
• Breidablik (A)
• Hamrun Spartans (H)