Match Info

Competition: Coppa Italia — Round of 64

Date: August 14, 2026

Time: 20:15 (UK)

Venue: Stadio Artemio Franchi

Fiorentina Preview

Fiorentina begin their Coppa Italia campaign against Benevento, with Fabio Grosso taking charge of his first competitive match since becoming head coach. The Viola endured a difficult 2025-26 season, finishing 15th in Serie A and exiting the Coppa Italia in the last 16. Grosso has been brought in to restore a clear identity to the club, and this cup tie offers an ideal opportunity to start his tenure positively. Fiorentina are also beginning their centenary season, while new signing Franco Mastantuono could make his competitive debut from the bench after recently returning to full training.

Benevento Preview

Benevento arrive in Florence after an excellent campaign that secured their promotion back to Serie B. Antonio Floro Flores transformed the team last season, guiding them to 17 consecutive positive results and ultimately the Serie C title. They also showed their attacking potential in the previous round of the Coppa Italia, recovering from two goals down to defeat Ravenna 5-3. However, that match also exposed defensive weaknesses, while a lengthy injury list leaves Benevento short of options for this major test. Former Fiorentina academy players Cristiano Dalle Mura and Eduardo Pierozzi will also have an interesting personal connection to the occasion.

Probable Lineups

Fiorentina (4-3-2-1)

De Gea; Mario, Dragusin, Ranieri, Valdepenas; Oulai, Brescianini, Ndour; Atta, Gudmundsson; Keane

Benevento (4-2-3-1)

Vannucchi; Pierozzi, Scognamillo, Caldirola, Beruatto; Maita, Prisco; Lamesta, Talia, Guigliano; Salvemini

We Say

Fiorentina have endured a turbulent period, making this match particularly important for Grosso as he begins his competitive tenure. Benevento deserve respect after their promotion campaign and impressive cup comeback, but the difference in squad quality, home advantage and Fiorentina's greater experience at the top level make the hosts strong favourites to progress.