Fiorentina and Viktoria Plzen are poised for a captivating showdown at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on the 18th of April, 2024, as they clash in the second leg of the Europa Conference League quarter-finals.
The first leg, which saw both teams drawing a blank in a goalless match, sets the stage for an intriguing return fixture where both sides will be desperate to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Current Form
Fiorentina's Current Form
In recent times, Fiorentina have experienced a slight dip in form.
Despite their strong start to the competition, scoring has become a significant challenge, with the team managing just one goal in their last six matches across all competitions.
Their recent draw against Genoa underlines the need for a revitalized attacking strategy to overcome Plzen's robust defence.
Plzen's Current Form
Viktoria Plzen, on the other hand, have maintained a solid defensive record, highlighted by a series of clean sheets that have propelled them to this stage of the competition.
Their recent narrow victory over Slavia Prague demonstrates their capacity to grind out results when needed, making them a formidable opponent in knockout football.
Team News
Fiorentina Team News
For Fiorentina, key adjustments in the lineup could see Dodo returning to the starting XI after missing the last game, while Cristiano Biraghi may also make a comeback. The team will rely heavily on the defensive stability of Lucas Martinez Quarta and the goal-scoring prowess of their forward line to turn the tide in their favour.
Plzen Team News
Plzen will be without several key players due to injuries, including Jan Sykora and Rafiu Durosinmi, both sidelined with knee issues. Despite these setbacks, Tomas Chory, their leading scorer in the competition, will be crucial as they look to secure an away goal.
Key Players
Fiorentina's Key Players
Andrea Belotti will be a pivotal figure for Fiorentina, whose ability to finish under pressure will be vital for breaking down Plzen's defence.
Alongside him, Arthur's midfield creativity will play a crucial role in crafting goal-scoring opportunities.
Plzen's Key Players
For Plzen, Pavel Sulc, who scored the winner against Slavia, and Tomas Chory will be essential in their quest to upset the hosts.
Their performances could very well decide the outcome of this tightly contested fixture.
Scoreline Prediction
With both teams showing strong defensive qualities, the game is likely to be decided by the finest of margins.
Anticipating the home advantage and Fiorentina’s need to bounce back, a narrow 1-0 victory for Fiorentina seems plausible.
FAQs
When is the match scheduled? The match is on the 18th of April, 2024.
What was the result of the first leg? The first leg ended in a 0-0 draw.
Where will the match be played? The match will be at Stadio Artemio Franchi, Florence.
What is at stake? A place in the Europa Conference League semi-finals.
Plzeň 
