Fiorentina 3–3 Genoa, a spectacular but bitter tie
As on countless other occasions this season, Fiorentina proved incapable of reducing the gap separating it from Napoli, which still occupies third place in the standings. To date Fiorentina has collected eight more points than last season, with the same number of games played, but it occupies just one position more than a year ago, due to the incredible pace sustained by the teams at the top of the league.
Coming to the game against Genoa, the Viola outfit, devoid of its many sidelined stars was able to obtain a much suffered point against the ‘Grifone’, conceeding as many as three goals at the Artemio Franchi stadium.
The result, however, cries out for vengeance, as referee Dino Tommasi made more than one crucial mistake: the penalty awarded to Luca Antonelli was beyond doubtful, but even more glaring was the offside not given in the build-up to Luca Antonini’s goal and Alberto Aquilani’s disallowed goal for a non-existent offside.
Refereeing oversights aside, Vincenzo Montella’s squad seemed frazzled at times. The entire back line showed itself to be no more than skin deep during key phases of the match: Neto seemed less sure than usual, while the two centrebacks were unable to participate actively in gameplay.
Fortunately, the Fiorentina fans were treated to a super performance by Aquilani who scored a decisive hat-trick under the eyes of national coach Cesare Prandelli. The fans also had a glimpse of new arrival Anderson’s skills, as the Brazilian made his debut on the pitch, wearing the number 88 jersey, bearing his Twitter nickname ‘Andow’.
Last days of the transfer market
With the winter transfer session coming to an end, Fiorentina sporting directors Daniele Pradè and Eduardo Macía will have their work cut out, as the Viola still seeks reinforcements to complete the roster after the injuries of Nenad Tomović and Borja Valero. Rumours indicate that the Viola may make an investment in defense, and Lazio’s French center-back, Modibo Diakité, has been rumoured to be on the Florentine club’s shortlist.
Upcoming matches
February 1: Cagliari–Fiorentina
February 8: Fiorentina–Atalanta
February 15: Fiorentina–Inter Milan
February 24: Parma–Fiorentina