After Fiorentina’s 1-1 draw against Vitoria Guimaraes in the Conference League, coach Raffaele Palladino addressed the media, sharing his thoughts on the match and the team’s performance. The game, held in northern Portugal, saw Gustavo Silva score for the hosts in the first half, while Rolando Mandragora equalized for Fiorentina late in the game.
Palladino began by emphasizing the importance of securing a spot in the top eight of the competition, stating, “The most important thing was to enter the top eight. I must thank the team; I was very pleased with the attitude of those who started from the first minute and those who came on later.” He acknowledged that Vitoria posed a significant challenge, noting, “We faced a formidable team at home. It wasn’t easy; we conceded a goal on a transition.”
Reflecting on his substitutions and tactical decisions, Palladino said, “I have no complaints about the team today. Those who came on helped us. We had many chances and conceded just as many. This type of game will help us grow.” He also discussed Lucas Beltrán’s situation, mentioning that he had limited options on the left side due to illness affecting another player: “I only have Lucas to put on the left; Sottil has a fever. Lucas is generous; we joked about how he only needs to play as a goalkeeper now. I just have to thank him.”
Addressing Richardson’s performance, Palladino expressed confidence in the player’s potential: “I believe in him because he has different characteristics than what we already have, but he needs to improve and understand that he must raise his level. He seems to play lightly, while in these matches, we need something more.”
Palladino concluded by taking responsibility for Fiorentina’s challenging first half: “We had prepared for the match in a certain way; at halftime, we adjusted some things. It was my fault; I need to put the players in a position to perform at their best.” He also offered praise for Vitoria Guimaraes, acknowledging their strong start: “They had one more point than us.”
The draw leaves Fiorentina in third place in their group with 13 points, while Vitoria Guimaraes sits fourth with 14 points.
