Fiorentina's Gosens Secures Win as Vanoli Looks Ahead to Conference League Comeback
Fiorentina secured a vital 1-0 home victory over Lazio on Monday night, with Robin Gosens' first-half goal proving the difference. The win, Fiorentina's second in a row, moves the Viola eight points clear of the Serie A relegation zone with six games remaining, significantly easing their relegation concerns.
Head coach Paolo Vanoli praised his team's character after the match, particularly given the number of absences. "We were a team until the end, we managed the game well even in the seven minutes of added time," Vanoli said in a post-match interview with Dazn. He also highlighted the contributions of substitutes, specifically naming Marco Fazzini, who returned to the pitch after a long absence. With seven youth players on the bench, Vanoli commended the squad's collective effort in a challenging period.
The victory provides a crucial boost ahead of a decisive European fixture. The focus now shifts to the UEFA Europa Conference League, where Fiorentina face a 1-0 deficit from the first leg of their quarter-final tie against Crystal Palace. Vanoli acknowledged the challenge, stating, "We have to try and dream. We will try until the end to give our all for our people, for our fans, and for ourselves." The second leg at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Thursday presents a significant opportunity for the club to progress in European competition.
Vanoli also took a moment to comment on the club's sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, who has been linked with a move to Juventus. The Fiorentina coach was unequivocal in his praise, calling Giuntoli a "great professional" and stating, "He has an important international CV, he has won a lot. The club has been enriched from this point of view, not just thanks to him, but also thanks to all of us." This public backing comes amidst speculation about the sporting director's future.
On the pitch, the defensive performance was a particular point of pride for Vanoli. With key defender Martin Erlic suspended, Daniele Rugani was called into the backline. Vanoli praised the veteran's display, stating, "Rugani showed his experience and played well in place of Pongracic, who I was afraid to risk." The manager also noted the positive performances of other squad players, which will be vital as the fixture list remains congested.
The win provides a stable platform ahead of the season's final stretch. With safety in Serie A looking increasingly likely, Fiorentina can now channel their full focus on a historic European comeback. Vanoli concluded, "We have achieved something important, and now we must recover our energy and try to dream in the Conference League. In football, you have to believe."
