Talking Tactics: How Fiorentina can blunt Irons to claim glory

Fiorentina are one step from winning the Europa Conference League — but David Moyes' West Ham stand in their way. 

La Viola have not tasted glory in Europe since lifting the 1960-61 European Cup Winners' Cup. 

However, the Italian side have had cup final practice this season — they lost the Coppa Italia to Inter Milan and will be keen to go one better this time. 

Ahead of tonight's clash with the Hammers, we highlight how Fiorentina can claim the trophy.

Flying high

Fiorentina have been phenomenal during their European campaign. 

They have scored the most goals (36), created the most chances (209) and completed the second-most take-ons (128) in the competition. 

Their efficiency in front of goal is matched by their excellence at progressing the ball into dangerous areas — they have completed the most passes of any team both overall (6,245) and in the final third (1,548). 

La Viola must play this final on their own terms and not allow West Ham to dictate proceedings.

Likely danger

Forward Arthur Cabral is Fiorentina's chief goal threat. 

Cabral, 25, is the Europa Conference League's joint-top goalscorer, netting an impressive seven goals in 13 appearances. 

His tally of eight Serie A goals in 28 outings is less eye-catching, though he was frequently used as a sub until the latter stages of the season. 

If he can find space in and around the West Ham box, the Brazilian is the likeliest candidate to breach their rearguard.

Rumours of discontent

Rumours regarding the future of head coach Vincenzo Italiano have proved an unwelcome distraction in the build-up to the final. 

La Viola's sporting director Joe Barone hit out after Serie A champions Napoli reportedly made an approach.

He said: "[Italiano] has a contract, I want to clarify it and these are respected. 

"Every time we have [big] matches, news comes out trying to destabilise the work we are doing. We are happy with our work and, above all, with our future." 

Fiorentina will have to block out the noise and focus on the task at hand — or risk being punished by the Hammers.

Battle cry

Fiorentina goalkeeper Pietro Terracciano insists the team will do everything they can to erase the memory of their domestic disappointment. 

He said: "It will be different from the Coppa Italia final. But we played a great game against Inter and I am sure the same will happen with West Ham. 

"This is our certainty, we'll give our all to win the trophy."

Cat and mouse

Fiorentina are likely to enjoy the lion's share of possession, with West Ham attempting to hit them on the counter.

La Viola are capable of exploiting space in behind should the Hammers push up high. 

And if they can blunt the Irons and demonstrate the efficiency in front of goal that led them to the final, they will be rewarded with a trophy at the second time of asking.