Cesare Prandelli and Fabio Liverani are trying to shrug off Fiorentina’s heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat against Rangers last night.
The Viola dominated their UEFA Cup semi-final second leg at the Stadio Artemio Franchi from start to finish, but couldn’t break down a stubborn and defensive Rangers outfit.
And Fiorentina paid the price in the lottery from 12 yards with Liverani missing his kick in a 4-2 defeat.
“We spoke to the boss after extra-time and I took responsibility and offered to take one,” the midfielder explained.
“It went badly because the goalkeeper read the angle, even if it wasn’t badly struck.
“The way we went out annoys me a bit, given that we were camped in their half for 180 minutes.
“Now all we can do is congratulate Rangers and wish them luck in the Final.”
Prandelli was also gracious as he struggled to hide his bitter disappointment after the game.
“We have to accept the result calmly,” he insisted. “It wasn’t a great evening, but we know that we gave all we could give.
“I want to thank the lads who believed they could win until the final minute of extra-time.
“This evening the side that closed the game down were rewarded, but we will continue with our project.
“We will try to improve, but this game showed that we are doing things right mentally.”
Rangers will now face Zenit St Petersburg in the Final after the Russians left Luca Toni’s Bayern Munich red-faced with a 4-0 demolition.
