Fiorentina travel to the Benito Villamarin later this week as they take on Real Betis in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League semifinals. Interestingly, La Viola have been the losing finalists in the two previous editions of the competition and this time, will be hoping to go one better. Here are three things that Fiorentina need to look out for when they take on Real Betis.
Form
Real Betis are peaking at the correct time considering the business end of the Conference League. Since the beginning of February, Betis have lost just thrice and this run has included a win against Real Madrid and a draw against Barcelona. Fiorentina had a poor February and March but have improved a lot this month. It can be said that Betis are the form team in this clash.
Strength down the wings
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Fiorentina play a 3-5-2 system, meaning the width is given by the wing-backs, most commonly Dodo and Robin Gosens. But Betis are really good going forward down the flanks. Antony has been superb since arriving from Manchester United and on the other wing, 19 year old Jesus Rodriguez has made a real impression. If they manage to peg Fiorentinaโs wingbacks down their own defensive half, their ability to move forward will suffer as well.
Midfield maestros
It is expected that Fiorentina will go into the game with a combination of Nicolo Fagioli, Yacine Adli, Rolando Mandragora and Danilo Cataldi. While they have been good, Betis have some magicians in midfield. They have the evergreen Isco who is still in breathtaking form. Johnny Cardoso has been one of the most impressive deeper midfielders in Spain over the last couple of years while Pablo Fornals and Sergi Altmira have complemented then well. If Fiorentina are to win this, they have to control the centre of the park.
Kaulik Mitra | GIFN
