Fiorentina Vs Roma

Following successful performances in European competitions, Fiorentina and Roma, separated by a mere three points in the Serie A standings, prepare to lock horns at Stadio Franchi on Sunday evening. Both teams are navigating contrasting journeys this season. Fiorentina has gathered momentum with a strong winning streak, while Roma remains in pursuit of consistency under new management.

Previewing the Game: Fiorentina’s Resurgence

Under the leadership of head coach Raffaele Palladino, Fiorentina has experienced a turnaround in form, particularly since the latter part of September. Thursday’s UEFA Conference League match saw Fiorentina continue their impressive run, where, despite an early goal from Swiss team St. Gallen, they managed to maintain their undefeated record in the tournament. Following a resounding 6-0 win over Lecce in Serie A, Fiorentina cruised past St. Gallen 4-2, with standout performances by Jonathan Ikone, who scored twice in the second half to secure their third straight win in Europe’s third-tier competition.

This victory was the latest display of Fiorentina’s offensive strength, as they capitalized on their lineup's versatility and new additions. Earlier in the season, Palladino’s squad had a rocky start, marked by three draws and a loss in the league. However, their gradual improvement became apparent in the Conference League qualifier, and with time, they have transformed into an aggressive, goal-scoring side. New signings Danilo Cataldi and Andrea Colpani have made a difference, each scoring twice last weekend, contributing to Fiorentina’s 14-goal tally over their last four matches across all competitions.

Domestically, Fiorentina has earned 10 points from a possible 12 in recent Serie A matches and now has an opportunity to secure three consecutive league victories, a feat they haven’t achieved since last year. Although Fiorentina faces a challenging history against Roma, having won just two of their last 12 encounters in the league, their recent form and home advantage could provide the edge needed to tilt the balance in their favor.

Roma’s Challenges and Quest for Stability

While Fiorentina enjoys a wave of confidence, Roma has faced difficulties in maintaining steady form. They, too, clinched a European win this past week, with Artem Dovbyk’s penalty against Dynamo Kyiv securing their first full three points in the Europa League in three games. This victory would likely be a much-needed reprieve for new head coach Ivan Juric, who took charge amid high expectations. Juric, who succeeded Daniele De Rossi, has faced scrutiny following recent stumbles, including a loss to Elfsborg, a draw against Monza, and a narrow 1-0 defeat to reigning Italian champions Inter Milan last week.

Currently trailing their longtime rivals Lazio, who lead the Europa League standings, Roma’s European success provides a glimmer of hope. With a relatively low 10 points in Serie A—a record that marks Roma’s lowest points tally at this stage since 2010—Juric faces the challenge of reenergizing the squad for league success. Sunday’s match could serve as a turning point for the Giallorossi, who seek to avoid further pressure from their supporters and media scrutiny.

History is not on Roma’s side as they prepare for their trip to Florence; they have managed just one point in their last three visits to Stadio Franchi. The last time Roma kept a clean sheet at Fiorentina’s home ground was nearly a decade ago, back in 2014. Despite recent struggles, Juric is only one victory away from an impressive milestone—joining a select group of coaches with over 300 points in Italy’s top-flight league.