Author: Vishwajit Sawant
In a memorable clash that will captivate soccer fans the world over, Fiorentina and West Ham United will meet in the long-awaited final of the European Conference League. On Wednesday, June 7, at the esteemed Fortuna Arena in Prague, this monumental encounter marks the first time the two clubs have reached a European final in the 21st century. With the title of second European Conference League champion at stake, the stakes are higher than ever.
This much-anticipated final promises to be a clash of titans as Fiorentina, from the iconic Serie A, take on Premier League powerhouse West Ham United. Both teams demonstrated their resilience and skill throughout their arduous journey to the final, earning a well-deserved opportunity to etch their names in soccer history.
Preview:
First, let’s take a look at the two teams that will face each other in the UEFA European Conference League final.
Fiorentina:
After a 62-year break from continental success, Fiorentina are ready to rekindle their European glory in the final of the European Conference League.
Under the guidance of Vincenzo Italiano, La Viola showed exceptional form throughout the competition, overcoming their status as runners-up in Group A. With just one defeat in the group stage, Fiorentina’s journey to the final included triumphs over Sporting Braga, Sivasspor, Lech Poznań and Basel in the knockout rounds.
Their remarkable attacking prowess saw them score 36 goals in 14 matches, making them the most productive team in the tournament. Led by the impressive Arthur Cabral, who tops the scoring charts with seven goals, Fiorentina approach the decisive game in Prague with a fervent desire to fulfill their lofty aspirations.
Possible line-up (4-2-3-1):
Pietro Terracciano; Dodo, Lucas Quarta, Nikola Milenkovic, Cristian Biraghi; Rolando Mandragora, Sofyan Amrabat; Nicolas Gonzalez, Giacomo Bonaventura, Jonathan Ikone; Arthur Cabral.
Forms guide:
Fiorentina’s recent form has been inconsistent, with three defeats in their last seven games in all competitions (W2, D2, L3). They were recently beaten 2-1 by Inter Milan in the final of the Coppa Italia, despite taking the lead through Nicolas Gonzalez. In the Italian Serie A, the team is currently in 11th place.
West Ham United:
Although West Ham United’s European achievements may seem like distant memories, their quest for continental success resumes in the final of the European Conference League. The Hammers’ most recent appearance in a European final dates back to 1999, when they emerged victorious in the UEFA Intertoto Cup. Their triumph in the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1964/65 also contributed to their prestigious history, although it was followed by a prolonged absence from the big stage.
Under the guidance of David Moyes, West Ham’s journey in the European Conference League this season has been remarkable. The team topped Group B with a perfect record of six wins before defeating AEK Larnaca, Gent and AZ Alkmaar in the knockout phase. Maintaining an unbeaten record throughout the competition, the Hammers arrive at the Fortuna Arena full of confidence.
For Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal, the final has a special meaning as they return to familiar territory. Having taken to the field during their time at Slavia Prague, it’s a homecoming game that adds an extra layer of motivation for the talented duo.
Possible line-up (4-3-3):
Alphonse Areola; Thilo Kehrer, Kurt Zouma, Nayef Aguerd, Aaron Cresswell; Tomas Soucek, Declan Rice, Lucas Paqueta; Jarrod Bowen, Michael Antonio, Said Benrahma.
Forms guide:
West Ham United’s recent form has been dynamic, with none of their last ten competitive games ending in a draw (W6, L4). In the most recent match, the team showed resilience by overcoming a one-goal deficit to secure a convincing 3-1 win over Leeds United, who are fighting relegation. In the English Premier League, the team is currently in 14th place.
Forecast:
Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Italiano, known for his dynamic style, has brought out the best in players like Nico Gonzalez, Cristian Biraghi and Arthur Cabral. West Ham, on the other hand, who are unbeaten this season, have shown great resilience this season. Despite their poor domestic form, they have been impressive in Europe and are aiming to win their first continental final since 1976. In the forecast for the 2022/23 season of the Europa League Conference, West Ham United are the favorites to win the 2022/23 Europa Conference League. Said Benrahma will score.
