Fiorentina-Hearts, the probable formations: the decisive examination of the Conference League

Details, someone will think. In reality these constant setbacks cause inconvenience to the team (then forced to do everything in a hurry) but, above all, they make Uefa a lot nervous and, for a club that says it is always ready to compare itself on an equal footing with the leaders of Italian and international football, it is not the best. The important thing, however, is that today the Viola are on time for the appointment with the kick-off (9 pm, 8 pm, in Scotland) because the plane for the knockout phase can no longer wait. Win. There are no alternatives. To put the qualification issue back on its feet and keep open a very small opening for that first place that would mean (and sorry if it’s too little) to skip the round of 32 (where there would be to contend with a relegated from the Europa League) and go directly to the second round. Because of this, Fiorentina must absolutely make a turn tonight. In a full stadium and it will scream loudagainst a team that will immediately jump on them trying to exploit their enthusiasm, hoping that, on the other side, Biraghi and his associates will be seized by fear.

In short, a tough game, one of those who want to see the man in the face. It will take calm and a cool head, quality (to skip their first attack) and, above all, personality. To be understood, players like Nico Gonzalez and Luka Jovic will be needed. It is they, now, who have to carry the weight of the team on their shoulders. The problem is that Nico hasn’t played continuously for a lifetime and, for this reason, he doesn’t have the 90 ‘in his legs. “He is better, but I think he can be useful especially in the last half hour,” Italian admitted yesterday. In short, initially, it will be the former Real who will have to make the difference. Maybe, playing in a slightly different role: not center forward but, starting from the left and then centralizing, trimmer. An idea, on which the technician is working. The alternative is to see it still in the center, with Saponara on the left. That quarter of an hour in Bergamo, however, convinced the Italian. «Luka is giving the right signals, it seems that eight months have passed but we are at the beginning. He needs trust, and he himself has to bring out his pride because a goal is certainly not enough for him, while we will try to propose something different – explained the Italian – because the group standings require us to do so ».

Of course, this does not mean throwing in all the attackers available. “In Bergamo there was a need to force in the final, the answers were positive but it was a special moment”. “Bergamo has given us awareness – adds Igor – we want the three points”. Of course, it will be necessary to reverse the course compared to the last six months since, away, the Viola have not won since 10 April. «It is a question of attitude – concludes Italiano – perhaps we are not as brave outside the home as at Franchi. Now, however, I want a different, bold team ». To go back to winning, and take back your own destiny.

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