[D-Kin]

Fiorentina tactician Cesare Prandelli believes that the Viola’s close shave against Groningen in the UEFA Cup will be a valuable experience.

The Gigliati were favourites after a 1-1 draw in Holland, but they fell behind at the Stadio Artemio Franchi and needed an Adrian Mutu equaliser to force spot-kicks.

“This will be an important experience that will serve us well,” Prandelli stated after the game.

“The last time that Fiorentina had a good run in the UEFA Cup it started after winning on penalties in the first round.

“I saw a lot of good things and we created so many chances in the first half. We ran into trouble, but we just need to take our opportunities.”

Although the hosts spurned a number of good chances, the Dutch opponents impressed in Florence and certainly left an impression on defender Alessandro Gamberini.

“I was impressed with the way they played,” he enthused. “They are a really decent side, especially on a physical level.

“I think we deserved to go through as we had the clearer chances, but Groningen get my respect and commiserations.”

Prandelli will have to hope that Thursday’s overtime hasn’t drained his troops before the weekend’s huge grudge match against Juventus.

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