Polissya Zhytomyr vs Fiorentina Prediction & Betting Tips (21 August)

Polissya Zhytomyr’s meteoric rise continues as they prepare to host Fiorentina in a pivotal UEFA Conference League clash. Under the guidance of manager Ruslan Rotan, the Ukrainian side has shown remarkable cohesion and resilience, recently dispatching Paks 3–0 and Karpaty Lviv 2–0 in domestic and European fixtures. Their midfield trio—Talles Costa, Oleksandr Nazarenko, and Oleksii Hutsuliak—has been instrumental in dictating tempo and unlocking defenses. With a squad boasting a blend of youth and experience, including the likes of Eduard Sarapiy and Bogdan Mykhaylichenko at the back, Polissya enters this tie with quiet confidence and a growing reputation for tactical discipline.

Fiorentina, meanwhile, arrive in Zhytomyr with a squad in transition but still brimming with pedigree. Stefano Pioli’s men wrapped up their pre-season with a gritty 1–1 draw against Manchester United, showcasing defensive solidity and flashes of attacking flair. The Viola have added veteran striker Edin Dzeko and midfielder Simon Sohm to their ranks, while Moise Kean remains their most potent threat up front after a 19-goal Serie A campaign. Despite a few injury concerns and the recent loan departure of Riccardo Sottil to Lecce, Fiorentina’s depth and European experience make them formidable opponents. Their midfield, anchored by Cher Ndour and Robin Gosens, will be key in controlling the rhythm against Polissya’s high-energy pressing.



The tactical battle promises intrigue. Polissya’s compact 4-2-3-1 formation thrives on quick transitions and set-piece precision, while Fiorentina’s more fluid 3-5-2 system relies on wing-back overlaps and central overloads. Expect Polissya to exploit Fiorentina’s occasional vulnerability on the flanks, especially with Lucas Taylor and Oleksandr Nazarenko combining down the right. Fiorentina, for their part, will look to dominate possession and draw Polissya out of shape. The match could hinge on individual brilliance—perhaps a long-range strike from Bogdan Lednev or a poacher’s finish from Kean. With both teams capable of scoring, defensive lapses may prove costly.

In what promises to be a tightly contested affair, Polissya’s home advantage and recent form tilt the balance slightly in their favor. Fiorentina’s pedigree ensures they won’t go quietly, but the Ukrainian side’s hunger and tactical sharpness could be decisive. A 2–1 scoreline in favor of Polissya feels plausible—an upset on paper, but one that reflects the momentum and belief coursing through Rotan’s squad. For Fiorentina, it’s a wake-up call; for Polissya, it’s a statement of intent.

• Summary: Polissya Zhytomyr is going head to head with Fiorentina starting on 21 Aug 2025 at 18:00 UTC at FUTBAL TATRAN ARÉNA stadium, Prešov city, Slovakia. The match is a part of the UEFA Europa Conference League, Qualification Playoff .
• Referee: Aliyar Aghayev