Club Brugge goalkeeper Simon Mignolet reflected on the Conference League semi-final loss to Fiorentina, taking a jab at referee Halil Umut Meler.
The Viola edged out an incredibly tense 4-3 aggregate win over the Belgian side in their European semi-final tie, putting Vincenzo Italiano’s side in the final against the winner of Aston Villa or Olympiacos.
Italiano and Fiorentina suffered a painful loss to West Ham in the Conference League final last term, giving them an extra burst of motivation to carry out some unfinished business in the upcoming final. The nature of their second leg semi-final draw with Club Brugge proved frustrating for many Belgian fans, with a late penalty call changing the tie.
Mignolet frustration
Speaking to Gianluca Di Marzio, Mignolet first reflected on Club Brugge’s Conference League semi-final loss to Fiorentina.
“We are all disappointed because we have shown once again of what we are capable of against a very strong Fiorentina, who for me can now win the Conference League.
“We deserved to go through even if at the end, especially in the second half, they played better by hitting the woodwork a couple of times. But it’s unfair that we went home because of a penalty.”
Mignolet continued analysing the nature of the Belgian side’s defeat to the Viola.
“I don’t want to say that the best team was eliminated because between the first and second legs Fiorentina proved to be stronger and expert. But they have a deeper squad, they can bring in players who will rock the game for you.
“And compared to us they have 22 high-level players. And this was their ace in the hole, the one that made the difference, not only in the return match but also in Florence.”
Finally, Mignolet took aim at referee Halil Umut Meler, whose penalty call changed the tie.
“But both at Franchi and tonight they scored in the last 20 minutes. It’s true that we ‘survived’ many posts, crossbars and shots on goal. They enjoyed a first-leg advantage which meant they only had to score one goal here in Bruges. But then the referee ruined the match with that penalty.”