Fiorentina coach Italiano: Viktora Plzen have truly iron-clad defence

Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Italiano says there cannot be any underestimating Viktora Plzen.

The Viola are in Plzen tonight for the first-leg of their Europa Conference League quarterfinal.

“If you think we are the favourites, then we need to put in a great performance to confirm that," said Italiano in his UEFA media conference.

“We are up against tough opponents who are unbeaten in the competition this season, have a truly iron-clad defence and what it takes to be a good level team.

“We come here knowing it will be difficult. We never underestimated anyone, trying to do better than last season and winning our group. It is too dangerous to underestimate someone in Europe, we have to prove our value, not just talk about it. We'll be made to sweat tomorrow."

He added, “We will try to cause issues for this seemingly impenetrable defence, which is concentrated and physically strong. We'll try to push the wide men forward and try to also be dangerous from set plays or shots from distance, all of which are important against defences that sit deep in a block."

Fiorentina coach Italiano: Viktora Plzen have truly iron-clad defence

Fiorentina coach Italiano: Viktora Plzen have truly iron-clad defence

Fiorentina coach Italiano: Viktora Plzen have truly iron-clad defence

Fiorentina coach Italiano: Viktora Plzen have truly iron-clad defence

Fiorentina coach Italiano: Viktora Plzen have truly iron-clad defence