Paolo Vanoli’s first game as Fiorentina’s head coach in Europe ended in defeat, as they lost 1-0 at home to AEK Athens in the UEFA Conference League. The Greek side moved above Fiorentina in the group table.
Vanoli, who replaced Stefano Pioli earlier this month, made seven changes from the team that lost 2-1 to Mainz. Edin Dzeko came back into the starting XI but missed a key chance early on. Fiorentina actually scored first, but VAR ruled Luca Ranieri offside.
AEK took the lead in the 35th minute when a pass from Cher Ndour bounced off Dzeko to Stavros Pilios, who set up Mijat Gacinovic to finish. Fiorentina struggled after half-time, with Ranieri again flagged offside despite scoring.
Vanoli made changes, including bringing on Moise Kean, but Fiorentina couldn’t find a way back. Dzeko hit the post and Rolando Mandragora missed another chance. AEK held on for the win, extending their unbeaten run to six games.
