A relieved Nicolo Fagioli shared his thoughts after Fiorentina defeated Jagiellonia in extra time to reach the last 16 of the UEFA Conference League.

The midfielder's excellent finish from the edge of the box restored the Viola's advantage on aggregate then Giovanni Fabbian's goal made it more comfortable – before the visitors got a late fourth to set up a nervy finale. 

“We didn't expect such a difficult game,” Fagioli admitted. “After putting three past them at their place we came here and conceded three. It seems crazy but on the international stage if you don't go into the game with the right approach you can struggle against anyone.

“We have to look at the positives though: we're through to the next round. That's the main thing at the end of the day.”

He then revealed his goal may have been aided by some locker room target practice.

“Luckily the ball dropped nicely for me. I controlled it well and struck it sweetly. We practise shooting into the basket in the changing room and this was very similar!”

Next up for Fiorentina is another very important match in Serie A, away to Udinese.

“It's going to be very difficult. The reverse fixture was a strange game because they had a man sent off after ten minutes. They're a very strong, physical side so it's going to be tough.”