Italy

Gamberini Praises Fiorentina’s Determination Following Hard Fought Sporting Victory

The Viola are in Europe’s premier competition once again, following a tough tie against the Portuguese.

Aug 27, 2009 2:50:12 AM

Alessandro Gamberini, Fiorentina (Grazia Neri)

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Alessandro Gamberini, Fiorentina (Grazia Neri)

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Alessandro Gamberini

Fiorentina have qualified for the UEFA Champions League group stage for the second season running, following an intense 1-1 draw with Sporting at the Artemio Franchi stadium last night.

The Viola progressed on away goals with the 3-3 aggregate result, and their experienced defender, Alessandro Gamberini, has put it down to hard work and focus.

“This was a very difficult match for us, and we knew it would be. The condition of the pitch tonight also didn’t help,” Gamberini was quoted as saying to Sky Sports.

“We hope to improve further in time, and I believe that we can, if we continue to show the determination we had tonight.

“Again, the conditions were very difficult, the opposition were very good, and this made it difficult for us to play our natural game.

“They are a physical team, and they are very experienced, which caused us a lot of problems, but we stood firm and held on.

“In the second half I felt that we reacted well, and in the end we deserved to go through.”

Fiorentina host Palermo in the league this weekend as they go in search of their first victory in Serie A for the new campaign.

Adrian Del Monte, Goal.com