Udinese delivered a dominant display, securing a convincing 3-0 victory over Fiorentina in a crucial Serie A clash at Bluenergy Stadium.
Udinese delivered a commanding performance at Bluenergy Stadium on March 2, dismantling Fiorentina with a decisive 3-0 win. Goals from Christian Kabasele, Keinan Davis, and Adam Buksa ensured all three points for the home side.
Both teams entered this Serie A encounter in the lower mid-table positions. Udinese sat 12th, while Fiorentina occupied 16th, making this a vital match for gaining momentum and moving clear of any potential relegation worries.
Udinese started with intent, asserting themselves early. In the 10th minute, Christian Kabasele rose highest to power home a header. Nicolò Zaniolo provided the pinpoint assist, giving the hosts a dream start.
The early goal energized Udinese and put Fiorentina on the back foot. Despite enjoying more of the ball, Fiorentina struggled to create any meaningful chances to test the Udinese goalkeeper.
The half saw increasing physicality as both teams battled for control. Fiorentina's M. Pongracic received a yellow card for tripping in the 28th minute. Four minutes later, Udinese's Kingsley Ehizibue and Fiorentina's Fabiano Parisi were also booked.
Fiorentina's coach made tactical adjustments at halftime, introducing M. Brescianini and P. Comuzzo. They hoped these changes would provide a much-needed spark and help them break down Udinese’s resolute defense.
The second half began with Fiorentina attempting to push forward, but their attacking efforts lacked precision. Udinese remained disciplined, absorbing pressure and looking for opportunities to counter.
Udinese capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 64th minute. Keinan Davis stepped up confidently to convert a penalty, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way. This doubled Udinese’s lead and firmly put them in control.
Following the goal, both teams turned to their benches for fresh legs. Adam Buksa replaced the goalscorer Davis for Udinese. Fiorentina introduced attackers like R. Mandragora and M. Kean in a desperate attempt to salvage something, while Luca Ranieri received a late yellow card in the 80th minute.
Udinese continued to press for more, despite their comfortable lead. In the 90+4th minute, substitute Adam Buksa sealed the emphatic victory. He slotted home a third goal, putting an exclamation mark on a memorable performance.
Udinese showcased clinical finishing, netting three goals from only seven shots on target. Fiorentina, despite holding 64% possession and taking 11 shots, failed to register a single attempt on target. This efficiency differential was stark, with Udinese's xG at 1.5 to Fiorentina's 0.68.
This crucial 3-0 triumph moves Udinese up to 12th in the Serie A standings, providing a significant boost to their season. Fiorentina, meanwhile, remain stuck in 16th, facing renewed pressure after a disappointing away loss.
