Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Conference League match.
Fiorentina's refreshed squad is performing well over the course of both Serie A and the Europa Conference League, where the team reached the final in consecutive seasons. Against St. Gallen, the Italian side will likely minimise the hosts' opportunities, benefitting from the excellent form of their new leader David De Gea.
St. Gallen
The upcoming encounter with Fiorentina threatens to extend St. Gallen's winless streak to five matches. In their last four outings, the Swiss team suffered three defeats, conceding nine goals. They were most heavily defeated in the Conference League by Cercle Brugge (2:6), where the Belgian side led by four goals by the 54th minute, ultimately creating 2.73 xG with 10 shots on target.
Fiorentina
On Sunday, Fiorentina triumphed over Lecce (0:6), marking David De Gea's second clean sheet in their last three matches; notably, against AC Milan (2:1), he saved two penalties. The Spanish goalkeeper's experience provides the outfield players with confidence, assured by the quality shot-stopper behind them. Against the Welsh side The New Saints (2:0) in early October, Fiorentina deployed Pietro Terracciano, but still secured victory (2.30 xG vs 0.15 xG and 10-0 in shots on target).
St. Gallen vs Fiorentina Prediction
Travelling to St. Gallen, Fiorentina will not underestimate their opponents, as the group stage is just beginning. Even with a few injuries, Raffaele Palladino has enough top-tier players to secure a result.
