There was pure Viola brilliance aplenty in Bagno a Ripoli on Friday. Fiorentina produced a stunning 3–1 victory over Juventus to keep their Champions League hopes alive. Swedish forward Madelen Janogy, named player of the match with a superb brace, led the charge at Viola Park. Midfielder Emma Severini added a third from the penalty spot in a performance full of character and quality from Sebastian De La Fuente’s side, which was epitomised by the right attitude, execution and result.

There was huge pressure heading into the match, as Fiorentina had to win to stay in the race for Europe and freshly crowned champions Juventus were always going to post a major test, having already won earlier this season in Florence, but the Viola showed no signs of nerves.

Right from the start, the intent was clear. Agnese Bonfantini struck the crossbar early on, and soon after, Janogy rose highest from a corner to head Fiorentina in front. Just after the half-hour mark, Sofie Bredgaard was brought down in the area and Emma Severini converted calmly from the spot to make it 2-0. The third arrived late, again via Janogy, who powered in another header after an incredible double save by Juventus goalkeeper Francesca Durante had temporarily kept her out. The visitors managed a late consolation through Emma Stolen Godo, but by then the points were sealed.

Fiorentina’s task remains unchanged: next Saturday in Milan (kick-off at 12.30 at the Arena Civica) is another must-win game, this time against Inter. The gap behind Roma has narrowed but there is still a lot to make up. With just two games remaining, Fiorentina must leapfrog the Giallorosse to reach Europe.

Next weekend it is Inter against Fiorentina and Roma will take on Milan. Then comes what could effectively be a play-off when Fiorentina host Roma at Viola Park. Before that, all eyes are on Inter, who, despite already securing their Champions League place, will be looking for revenge after two defeats to Fiorentina earlier this season. For the Viola, there’s only one option left: win on Saturday, hope Roma slip up and set up an all-or-nothing final day.

ACF Fiorentina 3-1 Juventus FC (HT: 2-0)

Scorers: Janogy 9 and 81, Severini 25, Godo 90+1.

ACF FIORENTINA: Durante, Ballisager, Faerge, Erzen, Severini, Snerle, Catena (Curmark 67), Bredgaard (Della Peruta 77), Boquete (C) (Pastrenge 77), Janogy (Longo 88), Bonfantini (Georgieva 88).
Subs not used: Zuluri, Cherubini, Bettineschi, Ciabini, Lombardi.
Coach: Sebastian De La Fuente.

JUVENTUS FC: Proulx, Kullberg, Lehmann (Girelli 60), Rosucci (C) (Brighton 74), Vangsgaard (Cantore 74), Bennison (Schatzer 60), Godo, Thomas, Bergamaschi, Calligaris, Krumbiegel (Bonansea 60).
Subs not used: Harviken, Boattin, Salvai, Capelletti, Mustafic, Volpini.
Coach: Massimiliano Canzi.

Booked: Krumbiegel, Bredgaard, Schatzer.