Rapid Vienna vs. Fiorentina: Prediction, Team News, Lineups Preview
In a highly anticipated Conference League matchup, Rapid Vienna is set to face Fiorentina on Thursday. The clash promises to draw attention after both teams experienced contrasting fortunes in recent competitions.
Match Preview: Rapid Vienna vs. Fiorentina
Rapid Vienna, having battled through three qualifying rounds to reach the league phase, suffered a disappointing 4-1 defeat against Lech Poznan in their opening match. This loss left the Austrian side seeking redemption as they return to Weststadion.
Despite their recent struggles, Rapid Vienna has a solid track record at home in prior qualifying matches. They achieved notable victories, scoring at least two goals against FK Decic, Dundee United, and Gyor. However, facing Fiorentina presents a significant challenge, especially after the Green-Whites have endured a five-match winless streak in all competitions, including four consecutive defeats.
On the other hand, Fiorentina, after beginning their campaign with a 2-0 win against Sigma Olomouc, will look to build on their success despite recent setbacks in Serie A. The Italian side, currently placed eighth in the Conference League, aims to secure another positive result to maintain momentum in Europe.
Recent Form
- Rapid Vienna: Winless in their last five matches; four losses.
- Fiorentina: Lost two of their last four Serie A matches after their conference opener win.
Team News
Rapid Vienna will miss several key players, including Oliver Strunz, Tobias Borkeeiet, Jean Marcelin, and Noah Bischof, due to injuries or ineligibility. However, Nikolaus Wurmbrand and Claudy Mbuyi, both vital to the team’s attack, have each scored three league goals and will be significant threats on Thursday.
Fiorentina, managed by Stefano Pioli, also faces challenges with injuries, as Tariq Lamptey and Christian Kouame are sidelined. Moise Kean is expected to return to the starting lineup after serving a two-match ban. Midfielder Cher Ndour, who played a key role in the victory against Sigma Olomouc, aims for a starting position as well.
Possible Lineups
| Rapid Vienna | Fiorentina |
|---|---|
| Hedl | De Gea |
| Bolla, Cvetkovic, Raux-Yao, Horn | Pongracic, Mari, Ranieri |
| Seidl, Amane | Dodo, Mandragora, Caviglia, Ndour, Gosens |
| Wurmbrand, Gulliksen, Radulovic | Gudmundsson, Kean |
Prediction
Fiorentina is expected to leverage their European experience, and the prediction is a 3-1 victory over Rapid Vienna. The Viola aims to emerge from this matchup with confidence while handing the hosts a further blow in their quest to regain form.
