Crystal Palace's Benitez Eyes European Progress Ahead of Fiorentina Clash

Crystal Palace are preparing for a crucial Europa Conference League quarter-final first leg against Fiorentina, with the club's second-choice goalkeeper Walter Benitez emphasizing the importance of the European campaign. The Italian side will travel to Selhurst Park for the first leg on Thursday, with the return leg in Florence scheduled for a week later.

In the pre-match build-up, Argentinian goalkeeper Walter Benitez, who has been competing with Dean Henderson for the starting spot, stressed the significance of the European run for the club. "It's the club's first year in European competition," Benitez stated. "Every game for us is like a final because we want to go as far as possible in this competition. We know it's really important for the club, and for us, so we try to give our best in every game."

Benitez, who is expected to start on the bench with Henderson likely to be named in the starting lineup, praised the home support. "We have great support from the stands and that's fantastic for us," he said. "We have to stay united and work hard, because that's what we want. I'm really happy and I hope we can continue like this for a long time."

Fiorentina, managed by Paolo Vanoli, have their own selection concerns ahead of the trip to London. Midfielder Rolando Mandragora is expected to be fit after a calf issue, having returned to group training. However, the Italian side will be without the services of Rolando Mandragora, who is ineligible, and will also be missing the injured Andrea Belotti and the suspended Nicolas Gonzalez. Defender Dodo is a doubt but could be available for selection after a recent knock.

The tie represents a significant opportunity for Crystal Palace, who are experiencing their first European campaign in over two decades. A victory would see them reach the semi-finals of a European competition for the first time since 1992. For Fiorentina, the Conference League offers a chance to secure European silverware after finishing as runners-up in last season's Coppa Italia. The outcome of this quarter-final tie could have significant implications for both clubs' seasons, with European success a key objective for both.