Fiorentina draw Tottenham for the second year running in the Europa League round of 32

After knocking out Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League round of 32 last year, Fiorentina have been drawn against the Premier League side once again this time round. Last year's tie finished 1-1 at White Hart Lane after Jose Maria Basanta cancelled out Roberto Soldado's 6th minute strike. In Florence, the Viola were dominant and sealed a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Mario Gomez and Mohammed Salah. The 3-1 aggregate score saw them advance comfortably to the next round and a tie with AS Roma.

Fiorentina manager Paulo Sousa stated that facing Tottenham would be a "fascinating and very demanding challenge" and mentioned the potential for a great atmosphere in England. General manager Andrea Rogg warned against complacency from last year, stating "We can't be lulled by past results, we have to face this clash between two strong, competitive teams with determination and conviction"

Last year's victory against Tottenham sparked a run in the competition for the Viola that was only halted by eventual winners Sevilla at the semi-final stage. Although the draw brought the same fixture for Fiorentina, little remains the same as Vincenzo Montella is no longer at the helm and there has been a high turnover of players. Spurs currently sit in 5th place in the Premier League, the exact same position they occupied this time last year and will no doubt provide a tough test.

The first will be played in Florence on 18th February 2016 at 19.00CET, the return leg in London just a week later on 25th February 2016 at 21.05 CET