Lech Poznan vs Fiorentina

Serie A high-flyers Fiorentina head to Stadion Miejski Poznan to meet Polish side Lech Poznan in the first leg of their Europa Conference League quarter-final tie.

Lech Poznan readied themselves for a comeback to the European scene by securing a 2-0 triumph against Warta Poznan in a local derby over the weekend, stretching their unbeaten streak to seven games in all competitions (W5, D2). Inspired by a recent purple patch, the ‘Railwaymen’ will be aiming to further their most successful European campaign, having become the first Polish team to reach a major UEFA quarter-final in 27 years. Lech’s success in Europe has largely been due to their excellent home form, having remained undefeated in nine European matches (W8, D1) this season at Stadion Miejski Poznan. Their solid defense has played a significant role in that run, having kept seven clean sheets during that period, suggesting they might be able to frustrate in-form Fiorentina.

Meanwhile, Fiorentina had a glorious opportunity to win ten consecutive matches for the first time in club history but slipped to a 1-1 home draw against Serie A minnows Spezia at the weekend. The impending return to the continental stage could be a welcoming distraction, considering Vincenzo Italiano’s men have won their last eight Europa Conference League fixtures, netting an intimidating average of 3.13 goals per game during that period. Given Fiorentina’s unbeaten record in trips to Poland (W2, D1) and excellent recent form, the visiting team should feel confident going into this match. In addition, they have an impressive track record in major UEFA quarter-finals, having won seven out of their previous eight ties, including their last four.