Preview: Shelbourne and Shamrock Rovers compete for European league stage football

Shelbourne and Shamrock Rovers are both in action in the Europa Conference League play-offs as they are 180 minutes away from the league phase.

For Shelbourne, it is a familiar opponent as they take on Linfield for the second time this season.

Joey O'Brien's side defeated Linfield in the Champions League qualifiers in July, and the sides meet once again in the final chance to keep their European season alive.

Shelbourne had the opportunity to guarantee European football last week, but were defeated 4-3 on aggregate by Rijeka.

For Shamrock Rovers, who are familiar with group stage football, they face a tough task when they take on Portuguese side Santa Clara.

Stephen Bradley's side will go in as big underdogs, but creating big moments in Europe has been associated with this team over the years, and one more would see them in the Conference league once again.

Here is all you need to know ahead of Thursday's action

Conference League play offs

Shelbourne v Linfield, Tolka Park, RTÉ Two, 7:45 pm.

Santa Clara v Shamrock Rovers, Estádio De Sao Miguel, LOITV, 8:00 pm.