Fiorentina v Torino: Oooooh, That’s Gotta Smart

For the first 20 minutes of this one, the announcers were full of praise for Torino’s organized defending and aggressive counter-attacking. Within ten minutes, of course, they’d missed a great chance to go up 2-0, given up two outrageously lucky goals to Luca Toni, and the game was pretty much over. I think this is where we say something pithy, like “Football is a cruel mistress.” Or, if you prefer, “Sometimes it sucks to play a really good team, especially when you can’t finish.”

Torino really weren’t THAT bad (apart from that whole defending thing) — it’s just that Fiorentina were much, much better. I know I always use the word “confident” when I’m talking about the Viola, but it’s really the first thing that comes to mind. They play like they know they’ll win, and assume every pass — no matter how hopeful — will find its target. And it makes a difference, both in terms of intimidation and their own commitment. Going behind is rarely a reason for concern, and no lead is too big — they’re going to keep coming at you, and keep scoring gorgeous goals. Well, either that or the ball will bounce off Toni, Tezeguet-style, and a centerback who (as far as I can tell) has never scored a Serie A goal in his life will score a brace. Either way, they’ll keep winning.

Also: Reginaldo is my new favorite Fiorentina player. He’s frighteningly strong and fast, and pops up everywhere, hurtling forward like some sort of very thick, skillful missile. When I start my own team, he and Corini are picks one and two. Oh, and Stankovic, too. With those three, we’d out-tough anybody.

Category: Fiorentina, Results, Serie A

Tags: Fiorentina, Reginaldo, Results, Serie A, Toni, Torino

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