Despite being in mid-December, this game already had the feel of a six-pointer, with these two sides managing just one Serie A win between them this term.
Fiorentina, though, have at least tasted success in Europe, winning three times in the UEFA Conference League - including in midweek.
The game started in a frantic manner as both sides had chances. First, Martin Frese had an opportunity when picked out in the box, but the defender could only steer his effort onto the crossbar.
Fiorentina then almost broke the deadlock through Moise Kean just past the quarter-hour mark, but the Italy international sent his shot flying narrowly over the bar.
The visitors were forced into a change in the 35th minute when Giovane came off, replaced by Gift Orban, yet the Nigerian made an almost immediate impact as he broke the deadlock three minutes before half-time.
He showed plenty of composure as he slotted in from the edge of the box to finish off a quick counterattack following a Fiorentina corner.
The second half began in a similar fashion to the first, with both sides creating chances. Dodo missed an opportunity to equalise 10 minutes after the restart, but his effort sailed wide before Luca Ranieri headed over from close range.
Fiorentina continued to push for the equaliser, and it arrived in the 69th minute, albeit in fortuitous circumstances when Unai Nunez turned into his own net.
Paolo Vanoli’s side looked to have battled to a point until stoppage time, when Verona struck at the death through Orban, who finished with aplomb after being afforded space in the box.
The late defeat is another huge blow for Fiorentina as their miserable domestic campaign continues - they are now eight points adrift of safety.
Verona, meanwhile, are now just two points behind Parma in 17th and will hope they can build on this positive week in their bid for survival.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Gift Orban (Verona)
