Fiorentina fire blanks at Paços Ferreira

ACF Fiorentina require at least a draw in their final fixture against FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk to decide who will top UEFA Europa League Group E after the Viola drew 0-0 at FC Paços de Ferreira.

Fiorentina had already qualified and their heavily rotated squad never really found their rhythm in northern Portugal. Though they secured a draw that keeps them one point clear at the summit, they lost their 100% record in the section.

With Paços Ferreira out of contention for a place in the last 32, the game started at a slow tempo. Ignoring their guests' form and reputation, the hosts set about proving their own credentials – Rúben Ribeiro curling an early shot wide after skilfully beating his marker. Encouraged, Paços Ferreira pushed forward and almost scored seven minutes later. Ribeiro turned provider, setting up Bébé, but the former Manchester United FC forward fired at Gustavo Munúa when a goal looked certain.

Vicenzo Montella's charges had troubled Paços Ferreira goalkeeper António Filipe only from a Matías Fernández free-kick in the first half, and after the interval they endeavoured to put that right. A more intense Viola kicked off the second half, pressing high and pinning Paços in their own half.

Despite the improvement, chances remained at a premium. Juan Cuadrado tested Filipe, yet only Alberto Aquilani's fine 75th-minute header brought the away fans from Italy to their feet. At the other end Manuel José threatened to snatch a victory, but a strong Munúa palm kept it honours even.