Florence, Italy – In a much-needed morale boost, Fiorentina commenced their 2025/2026 Conference League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Czech side Sigma Olomouc. The win, secured on home turf, marks a vital three points for Vincenzo Italiano`s squad, providing a welcome respite from a challenging start to their Serie A season. While the performance might not have been a masterclass in fluidity, the result itself was a testament to resilience and, perhaps, a timely awakening for a key new signing.
A Crucial European Start Amidst Domestic Woes
For a team that has faced its share of scrutiny in the opening weeks of the domestic league, the European stage offered a fresh canvas. Fiorentina entered the Conference League fixture with the dual objective of securing a win and, perhaps more importantly, rebuilding confidence. The atmosphere, though charged with expectation, also carried the subtle weight of recent results. Despite a performance that, by their coach`s own admission, was “not convincing from start to finish,” the Viola managed to find the back of the net twice, dispelling some of the looming clouds over Artemio Franchi.
Piccoli`s Moment of Relief: A €25M Statement
Among the evening`s most significant takeaways was the debut goal of striker Roberto Piccoli. The former Cagliari man, whose €25 million transfer fee plus bonuses has been a subject of considerable discussion and, let`s be honest, a good deal of public expectation, finally found his scoring touch in a Fiorentina shirt. His goal was not just a tally on the scoreboard; it was a tangible release of pressure, both for the player and for the club`s faithful. One could almost hear a collective sigh of relief from the stands. This crucial strike not only broke the deadlock but also, hopefully, kickstarts Piccoli`s journey in Florence, turning talk from his price tag to his prowess. The second goal, a clinical finish from Ndour, merely added a comfortable cushion to an already improving night.
Pioli`s Pragmatic Outlook: “We Suffered Well”
Following the match, head coach Stefano Pioli offered a characteristically pragmatic assessment. While acknowledging areas for improvement, he chose to focus on the positives, highlighting the team`s ability to adapt and secure the desired outcome. “We did some good things despite the intensity of the opponent,” Pioli stated, perhaps with a touch of diplomatic understatement. He further elaborated on tactical adjustments: “We could have played more between the lines, but we are working on it and I believe we will achieve faster penetrations. We were balanced and compact. The team suffered well and in the end, the result arrived.”
“We did some good things despite the intensity of the opponent. We were balanced and compact. The team suffered well and in the end, the result arrived.”
Pioli`s comments about making “the necessary choices to win the game, thinking little about Roma” — referring to their upcoming Serie A fixture — underscored a clear focus on the immediate task at hand, a sign of a coach prioritizing points over rotation. This unyielding dedication to victory, even when the path is less than picturesque, speaks volumes about the mentality he is striving to instill.
The Road Ahead: Building Momentum
While the performance against Sigma Olomouc may not feature in highlight reels for its artistic merit, its significance cannot be overstated. It represents not just three points in Europe but a crucial psychological lift. For Fiorentina, this victory is a foundation. It’s a reminder that even when the gears aren`t fully engaged, quality and determination can prevail. As they look to translate this European impetus back to their domestic campaign, the hope is that Piccoli`s goal and the team`s collective resilience will serve as catalysts for a more consistent and convincing future.
