Playing for Fiorentina, he formed a formidable defensive partnership with Ardico Magnini; despite being a left-back, however, Cervato often contributed to the Viola's attacks, scoring 31 goals during his 10 years in Florence.

Following the team's Serie A triumph, the squad narrowly missed out on several more league titles, finishing as runners-up for the next four consecutive years in 1957, 1958, 1959 and 1960.

After leaving the Florence side in 1959, Cervato won 2 more league titles with Fiorentina's rivals Juventus.

With the Italy national team, Cervato obtained 28 international caps, scored 4 goals, and participated at the 1954 FIFA World Cup.

As a left-back, he often contributed to his team's attacks; he also boasted a fierce shot and took both penalties and free-kicks.