Fiorentina and Pafos FC are set to clash in a crucial UEFA Conference League match at Stadio Artemio Franchi on Thursday afternoon. Both teams currently find themselves tied in the standings, each with six points from three matches, and are eager to secure a victory that would enhance their chances of finishing in the top eight and advancing to the knockout stages.
Fiorentina enter this match following a mixed run in the Conference League, having recently suffered their first defeat of the season against APOEL, losing 2-1 in Nicosia. Jonathan Ikone was the only scorer for the Viola in that match. Despite this setback, Fiorentina have shown remarkable form overall, particularly at home. They kicked off their league campaign with a convincing win against The New Saints and followed it up with a thrilling 4-2 victory over St. Gallen, where Ikone netted twice. In Serie A, Raffaele Palladino’s side has been on an impressive run, winning six consecutive league matches prior to the international break and most recently defeating Como 2-0.
The Tuscan club is on the cusp of breaking a club record for consecutive top-flight victories, which stands at eight wins from 1960. Their attacking prowess has been complemented by a solid defensive performance, as they have managed to keep five clean sheets away from home—only the second time this has occurred in their Serie A history. Before they resume their domestic title challenge against reigning champions Inter Milan, Fiorentina will aim to establish dominance in the Conference League.
Pafos FC also comes into this match with confidence after securing a narrow 1-0 victory against Astana, thanks to a late goal from Anderson Silva. The Cypriot side began their campaign with a resounding 4-1 win over Petrocub Hincesti but faced disappointment with a home loss to Heidenheim. Currently sitting alongside Fiorentina in the standings, Pafos is determined to capitalize on their recent form; they have won five consecutive matches across all competitions and are leading the Cypriot league with an impressive record of ten wins and one draw from eleven games.
Under the guidance of Spanish coach Juan Carlos Carcedo, Pafos have tightened its defense significantly, conceding only six goals this season. After lifting their first major trophy last season by winning the cup to qualify for Europe, they are now strong contenders for national championship glory, especially after overcoming Fiorentina’s conquerors APOEL last weekend.
Team News
For Fiorentina, the squad is largely healthy following Danilo Cataldi’s return from injury. The only notable absentees are midfielder Amir Richardson and captain Cristiano Biraghi. There is speculation that top scorer Moise Kean may be rested for this match as Palladino tends to rotate his squad in European competitions. Christian Kouame and Jonathan Ikone are expected to lead the attack alongside Albert Gudmundsson if he proves fit enough to play.
On the other hand, Pafos FCare is likely to field its strongest lineup as they look for an upset in Florence. With a record number of fans traveling from Cyprus for this match, they are eager to make an impact.
Expected Starting XIs
Fiorentina: Terracciano; Kayode, Moreno, Martinez Quarta, Parisi; Adli, Mandragora; Ikone, Bove, Sottil; Kouame
Pafos FC: Ivusic; Bruno, Luckassen, Goldar, J. Silva; Tankovic, Sunjic, Dragomir; Correia, Jairo, Jaja
Match Prediction
Given Fiorentina’s recent performances and home advantage, they are favoured to win this encounter with a predicted score-line of 2-1 against Pafos FC. While Pafos have shown significant improvement this season and poses a threat with their current form, Fiorentina’s depth and experience in European competitions should enable them to secure the vital three points as they aim for progress in the tournament.
Prediction: Fiorentina 2-1 Pafos
