Champions League: Sporting Lisbon 2 - 2 Fiorentina

A tense affair in Lisbon tonight saw Fiorentina snatch a slight advantage in their quest for the Champions League group stages. This is Fiorentina's second straight season in the competition after being drawn in the group of death in last seasons tournament. Fiorentina did well last year taking points off Lyon away from home and Bayern Munich at home but perhaps lacked the experience to reach the second round. However, tonight in Lisbon they showed the character that should see them into the group stages and perhaps beyond up against a team that did make the second round last year finishing runners up to eventual winners Barcelona in their group.

Fiorentina started well and had the lead after only six minutes. Manuel Vargas added to his growing reputation by firing home from distance, as usual, to give the Viola the lead. Sporting came close just before half time, but a Postiga volley went just wide of the post. However, Sporting drew level on 59 minutes through Vukcevic. However, he was sent off straight after for taking his shirt off to celebrate, after he had already been booked.

Moments later, it was 2-1 to Sporting thanks to an outstanding goal from Miguel Veloso who left Frey with little chance after a powerful effort breached the top corner. However, Gilardino scored with an excellent volley after a great through ball from Richardo Montolivo to draw the Viola level. Indeed, moments later they could, and perhaps should, have taken the lead through Stefan Jovetic. The excellent youngster cut through the Sporting defence but aimed his shot at the keeper. Had he lifted it, it would have been 3-2 Viola. Still, a good nights work for Fiorentina. They have the upper hand in the tie and two away goals to boot. A solid performance at home should see them through. Shame they could not wrap it up here though.