As Serie A enters its final stretch, two of Italy’s most storied clubs prepare to face off in a match laden with significance. Fiorentina welcome Juventus to the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Sunday, in a fixture that could have far-reaching implications for both sides’ European ambitions.
The Old Lady’s Recent Stumble
Juventus arrive in Florence reeling from a historic 4-0 home defeat to Atalanta, their worst Serie A loss in Turin since 1967. This shocking result not only dealt a severe blow to their fading Scudetto hopes but also raised questions about the team’s mental fortitude and manager Thiago Motta’s future. The Bianconeri now find themselves nine points adrift of league leaders Inter Milan, with their focus shifting firmly to securing a Champions League berth.
Despite this setback, Juventus can take solace in their away form this season. They’ve lost just once on their travels and have won their last two Serie A fixtures on the road. Moreover, their recent record against Fiorentina is encouraging, having lost only one of their last eight encounters with the Viola.
Fiorentina’s Quest for Consistency
The hosts, meanwhile, are battling their own demons. Fiorentina’s domestic campaign has been marred by inconsistency, with four wins and four losses in their last eight league matches. This erratic form has left them five points adrift of the European qualification spots, putting pressure on manager Raffaele Palladino.
However, the Viola received a much-needed boost midweek, overturning a first-leg deficit against Panathinaikos to advance to the Conference League quarter-finals. This victory, coupled with their strong record of fast starts in Serie A this season, could provide the springboard for a resurgence in their league campaign.
Key Battle: Attack vs. Defence
The match presents an intriguing tactical battle. Fiorentina boasts the joint-most goals scored in the first 15 minutes of Serie A matches this season (seven) and are yet to concede in the opening quarter-hour. This early attacking prowess could prove crucial against a Juventus side still smarting from their recent defensive collapse.
Juventus, for their part, will be looking to rediscover their defensive solidity that has been a hallmark of their play for much of the season. The potential return of key defenders could bolster their backline and provide a platform for their talented attacking players to express themselves.
Players to Watch
For Fiorentina, all eyes will be on ex-Juventus striker Moise Kean. The Italy international has been in fine form this season and will be eager to prove a point against his former club. In midfield, the potential return of Yacine Adli from injury could provide the Viola with additional creative spark.
Juventus’ attack will likely be spearheaded by Randal Kolo Muani, February’s Serie A Player of the Month. The French forward has been preferred to Dusan Vlahovic in recent weeks and will be keen to justify his selection. In midfield, Khephren Thuram, who scored twice in the reverse fixture, could play a pivotal role in controlling the tempo of the game.
Team News
Juventus will be without Douglas Luiz for the match, while Nicolo Savona, Jonas Rouhi, and Francisco Conceicao are all doubts but pushing for returns12. Khephren Thuram is set to feature in central midfield, and Randal Kolo Muani will likely lead the attack after being named February’s Serie A Player of the Month.
Fiorentina will rely on Moise Kean, who has been in fine form and sits second in the Capocannoniere charts. Nicolo Fagioli will hope to keep his place in midfield, although Yacine Adli could return to the starting lineup after injury1. Andrea Colpani is the only absentee for the Viola.
Expected XI’s
Fiorentina: De Gea; Pongracic, Mari, Ranieri; Dodo, Adli, Cataldi, Ndour, Gosens; Beltran, Kean
Juventus: Di Gregorio; Weah, Gatti, Kalulu, Cambiaso; Thuram, Locatelli; Yildiz, McKennie, Gonzalez; Kolo Muani
Prediction:
The match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams desperate for points. Fiorentina’s need for a win to close the gap on the top six could see them start aggressively, but Juventus’ experience and quality make them dangerous opponents even in their current form.
Prediction: Fiorentina 1-2 Juventus
