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Mateta's 'Dangerous' Threat Looms for Fiorentina
9 Apr
Summary
- Mateta returns from injury, providing a significant boost.
- Defender Marin Pongracic labels striker Jean-Philippe Mateta 'dangerous'.
- Fiorentina aims for Europa League via Conference League success.
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has been described as 'dangerous' by Fiorentina defender Marin Pongracic ahead of their Conference League encounter. Mateta recently returned to first-team action after recovering from a knee injury sustained in early February, playing 30 minutes in Crystal Palace's recent draw with Leeds United.
Pongracic, familiar with Mateta's abilities from previous matches, emphasized the striker's significant physical presence and speed. The Fiorentina defender urged caution for his team, acknowledging Mateta's individual quality. This warning comes as Fiorentina, having recently improved their position in Serie A to 15th and secured a five-point buffer from the relegation zone, can now fully concentrate on the Conference League.
Winning the Conference League offers Fiorentina a coveted spot in next season's Europa League, providing a potential salvage for their otherwise disappointing campaign. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace is aiming for consecutive seasons of silverware, having secured the FA Cup in the previous term.