Raffaele Palladino, Luca Ranieri and Robin Gosens share their thoughts after Fiorentina's 2-1 defeat in the away leg of their Conference League semi-final against Real Betis.

PALLADINO

“It was a real battle today – very intense. We played with confidence and character in a cauldron of a stadium. The lads performed really well and I'm proud of them. They went for it without holding back. There were chances at both ends. 

"We know all about the qualities of this Betis team. They're very good in transition and when they have the ball. 

"It's a shame we lost but it's all to play for. We believe we can turn it around and we hope the Franchi is fired up for it. We're full of belief and we'll be looking to produce a big performance back at home.

“We don't have much time to recover and prepare for Rome but I have a great squad with lots of good players who are in good shape. It's a close-knit group. We'll rest tonight then tomorrow we'll start thinking about Roma.”

RANIERI

“There was an absolutely incredible atmosphere here tonight – credit to the Betis fans and our own, who are always amazing. It was a good match. We managed to stay in the game and got the goal that keeps it all open. Now we're looking forward to the return leg.

“We tried to get back in it immediately but it's not easy when you're 2-0 down at a ground like this. Let's say the glass is half full. We knew they'd get at us but we did well playing out. 

"We have to try and give the ball away less in the second leg and be a bit more accurate in the final third. If we can do that, we'll create lots of chances. They're a great team but we'll give them a game. I'm sure we'll produce a big performance and the Franchi will be packed with an atmosphere like tonight. They'll be right behind us from the first to the last minute.

“Roma is a crucial game for us and we must go there and play with the same spirit. This is a fantastic group of players who deserve so much. We have to keep pushing because we've still got everything to play for – and we're obviously delighted to be in this position. We'll go and give them a battle in Rome and then we'll prepare for the return leg.”

GOSENS

“It's annoying to lose because I thought we were excellent. We held our shape really well and it was a very difficult atmosphere. We were calm in building our moves and we fashioned a fair few chances It's a shame about the two goals we let in – I think the first one especially could have been avoided. In any case it's a decent result to take back home. It's all to play for at the Franchi.

“We fought back from 2-0 down and that shows we're strong mentally. It's not necessarily the team with the most quality that wins. Over 180 minutes it's about who's better mentally and at 2-0 we responded as great teams do. We got back in the game with a vital goal, which is massive for the return. I'm confident we can turn it around.

“I'm here to help the team with my experience. In tricky away games like this, you need players who have been there and done it before. I try to instill the right mindset and desire. We're a bit disappointed with the result but I'm convinced that if we play with the attitude and determination next week we'll reach the final.”