The Daily Star Ireland
The UEFA Europa Conference League continues with a Group Stage encounter on October 2, 2025, as Fiorentina welcome Sigma Olomouc to the historic Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence. The Italian side enters the competition as one of the favorites to advance deep into the tournament, while Sigma arrive as underdogs seeking to spring a surprise.
Fiorentina: Confidence with a Point to Prove
Fiorentina, under manager Vincenzo Italiano, secured their place in the group stage with authority, defeating Polissya Zhytomyr 6-2 on aggregate in the qualifying rounds. The Viola have looked strong in recent weeks, blending structured buildup play with bursts of attacking creativity.
Key players such as Nicolás González and Giacomo Bonaventura have been central to Fiorentina’s success. González offers pace and width, while Bonaventura’s vision and composure in midfield drive the team’s transitions into the final third. A recent goalless draw against Torino in Serie A highlighted occasional issues with breaking down compact defenses, but overall form suggests a side capable of dictating tempo and punishing lapses at the back.
Sigma Olomouc: Determined Underdogs
Sigma Olomouc, coached by Václav Jílek, arrive in Florence with far less European pedigree but plenty of spirit. Their domestic form has been mixed—two wins and three losses in their last five matches—yet their squad contains sparks of potential. Forwards Antonín Růsek and Jan Vodháněl provide pace and unpredictability, giving Sigma outlets for counter-attacks.
Defensively, however, vulnerabilities remain. Sigma have struggled to contain wide players in recent games, an area Fiorentina will almost certainly target with overlapping fullbacks and González’s runs down the flank. To stand a chance, Sigma must stay compact, defend with discipline, and look for opportunities on set pieces or quick breaks.
Tactical Outlook
Fiorentina are expected to control possession through Italiano’s 4-2-3-1 system, stretching Sigma across the flanks to create overloads and space for runners. The Viola have averaged 1.6 goals per game in their last five matches, often capitalizing on early momentum to take control. Their aggressive pressing after turnovers also disrupts opponents’ attempts to transition into attack.
In contrast, Sigma Olomouc’s offensive record has been modest, averaging just 0.4 goals per game in recent fixtures. Their physical midfield could pose problems if they disrupt Fiorentina’s rhythm, but they will need to avoid conceding early goals. Falling behind in Florence could force them into chasing the game, leaving even more gaps for Fiorentina to exploit.
Prediction
While Sigma may show grit and find moments to trouble the hosts, Fiorentina’s superior quality, depth, and European experience make them heavy favorites. The Tuscan side’s home form, combined with Sigma’s struggles on the road, suggests a one-sided contest.
Predicted Score: Fiorentina 3 – 0 Sigma Olomouc
