Fiorentina bounce back from domestic struggles with a convincing win in Austria, staying perfect at the top of their Conference League group.
Fiorentina produced their best European performance of the season, cruising to a 3–0 away win over Rapid Vienna to maintain their perfect start in the Conference League. Despite a tough domestic campaign, the Viola once again showed their European strength, controlling the game from start to finish.
Missing Moise Kean, coach Stefano Pioli relied on the Dzeko–Piccoli partnership up front, and it was the Bosnian striker who made the difference early on. In the 9th minute, his shot was poorly handled by Hedl, and the rebound fell to Ndour, who tapped home to give Fiorentina the lead.
Shortly after, Piccoli missed a golden chance to double the score when he fired wide after a brilliant through ball from Fagioli, who — along with Nicolussi Caviglia — dictated the tempo in midfield all night.
The second half began just as well for the visitors. In the 48th minute, Fortini whipped in a low cross from the right, and Dzeko arrived perfectly to slot in the 2–0. Rapid Vienna had no response, struggling to cope with Fiorentina’s superior technique and movement.
In the closing stages, substitute Gudmundsson sealed the result with a precise finish in the 89th minute, confirming Fiorentina’s dominance and extending their winning streak in Europe. With this result, the Viola sit atop their group with maximum points — a much-needed boost after their Serie A woes.
Match Report
Scorers: 9′ Ndour (F), 48′ Dzeko (F), 89′ Gudmundsson (F)
Rapid Vienna (4-4-2): Hedl; Demir, Ahoussou, Yao, Horn; Bolla (62′ Auer), Seidl (85′ Schaub), Amane (75′ Ndzie), Antiste; Wurmbrand (62′ Gulliksen), Kara (85′ Weixelbraun).
Coach: Stöger
Fiorentina (3-5-2): De Gea; Comuzzo, Mari, Viti; Fortini (76′ Dodo), Ndour, Fagioli (57′ Sohm), Nicolussi Caviglia (57′ Mandragora), Parisi (88′ Kouadio); Dzeko (76′ Gudmundsson), Piccoli.
Coach: Pioli
Referee: Frid (Israel)
Yellow cards: Comuzzo (F), Kara (R), Seidl (R)
Red cards: None
