A goal from the usual Moise Kean (his 21st goal of the season for the former Juventus striker) last Thursday saved Fiorentina from extra time against modest Celje in the Conference League quarter-final second leg. After taking the lead through Mandragora, Raffaele Palladino’s side—as has often been the case this season, especially against opponents within their reach—were pegged back by the Slovenians, who remained in the game until the very end, even after conceding the goal that made it 2-2.
Despite an unconvincing performance, the Viola secured their place in the semi-finals for the third time in the last three years in this competition. However, to reach the final, the Gigliati will have to overcome Betis, with Ranieri and his teammates undoubtedly needing to raise their game in the two matches. In the meantime, however, Fiorentina cannot afford to ‘abandon’ the league, as they are in the running for a place in Europe.
In this regard, the Tuscan side squandered a great opportunity a week ago, losing points for the umpteenth time against the ‘minnows’ and failing to go beyond a draw with Parma in Florence (0-0). Fifth and sixth place are still within reach, provided that the Viola, currently eighth, do not slip up in their next two games against Cagliari and Empoli. The Sardinians, despite winning only one of their last eight games – a victory against bottom-of-the-table Monza, who are almost relegated – remain at a safe distance from the third-bottom team, six points behind the Rossoblù. Davide Nicola’s team, fresh from their 3-0 defeat at San Siro against Inter, have reached 30 points, but this is no time to rest on their laurels.
Cagliari-Fiorentina: the latest news on the line-ups
Everyone is available for Nicola except for the suspended Deiola. Luperto could return in defense, forming a trio with Zappa and Mina, while Luvumbo is ahead of Coman to partner Piccoli in attack. Makoumbou is more likely than Prati in midfield, while Viola and Gaetano are vying for the other spot.
Palladino will certainly make some changes from the Conference League match against Celje. Gosens has recovered and will regain his place on the left wing, while up front, either Gudmundsson or Beltran will partner the ever-present Kean, who will be asked to put in another shift by the Viola coach. Pablo Marì will return in defense.
Odds comparison
The “1X” result is quoted at 1.52 on Goldbet and Lottomatica and at 1.50 on Snai. The “Goal” result is quoted at 1.80 on Goldbet and Lottomatica and at 1.77 on Snai.
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The prediction
Fiorentina have not won away in the league since January and their last clean sheet on the road dates back to November. These figures, combined with the Viola’s obvious difficulties against ‘smaller’ teams and their cup commitments, lead us to back Cagliari, who should at least avoid defeat in a game that should see at least one goal for each side.
Probable line-ups for Cagliari-Fiorentina
CAGLIARI (3-5-2): Caprile; Zappa, Mina, Luperto; Zortea, Adopo, Makoumbou, Viola, Augello; Luvumbo, Piccoli.
FIORENTINA (3-5-2): De Gea; Pongracic, Pablo Marì, Ranieri; Dodô, Fagioli, Cataldi, Mandragora, Gosens; Gudmundsson, Kean.