Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Conference League match.
Fiorentina and Panathinaikos produced an action-packed first leg (2:3), leaving plenty of intrigue for the return fixture. Playing at home, Fiorentina will likely push forward from the start, aiming to overturn the deficit and secure a quarter-final spot within 90 minutes—something they should have the quality to achieve.
Fiorentina
Despite conceding twice inside 19 minutes in Athens, Fiorentina did not collapse mentally. Robin Gosens provided two assists, showing the team’s willingness to take risks regardless of the circumstances. The Italian side finished with a higher xG (1.45 vs 1.09) but lacked a late impact from substitutions. Against Napoli (1:2) on Sunday, Vincenzo Italiano rotated his squad but still showed attacking intent, registering 1.14 xG and seven shots.
Panathinaikos
Without Anastasios Bakasetas and other injured players, Panathinaikos have struggled with squad depth. At the weekend, they barely salvaged a draw away to Atromitos (1:1), despite leading them by 15 points in the Greek Super League. More concerning is their away form—seven consecutive games without a win since mid-December, including four defeats.
Fiorentina vs Panathinaikos Prediction
Fiorentina, last season’s Conference League finalists, should impose their style and dictate proceedings. Panathinaikos’ poor away form and squad limitations make an upset unlikely. Expect the hosts to take control and win in regulation time.
