Fiorentina Edge Past Gubbio 1-0 in Pre-Season Friendly

Fiorentina began their 2026 pre-season schedule with a narrow but positive 1-0 victory over Serie C side Gubbio on 23 July 2026. The match, played behind closed doors at the Viola Park training complex, gave head coach Raffaele Palladino a chance to assess his squad's fitness and integration of new signings ahead of the upcoming Serie A campaign.

The only goal of the game arrived in the 37th minute. A flowing move down the right flank ended with a low cross that found Fiorentina's striker in space, who directed a first-time finish past the Gubbio goalkeeper. The goal came after sustained pressure from the hosts, who dominated possession and territory throughout the first half.

Gubbio, despite being two divisions below their opponents, defended resolutely and looked to hit on the break. Their compact shape made it difficult for Fiorentina to find clear-cut openings in the final third, forcing Palladino's men to rely on individual quality and quick combinations in tight spaces.

The second half saw a flurry of substitutions from both sides as managers rotated heavily to spread game time. Fiorentina continued to control the game, creating several half-chances, but were unable to add to their tally. Gubbio's best opportunity came from a long-range effort that whistled just over the crossbar, giving the Viola a late scare.

Despite the slender scoreline, Fiorentina's performance was encouraging. The defensive unit looked solid, while midfield creativity provided a steady supply of ball progression. Newly arrived players showed glimpses of understanding with teammates, hinting at a promising chemistry as the season approaches.

Fiorentina will now continue their pre-season programme with friendlies against higher-level opposition, aiming to sharpen their attacking edge before the Serie A kick-off. Gubbio, meanwhile, will take confidence from a disciplined display against top-tier opponents as they prepare for their own league campaign.