
- Fixture: Sampdoria vs Salernitana (Serie B Relegation Playoff, 1st Leg)
- Date: Sunday, 15 June 2025
- Venue: Stadio Comunale Luigi Ferraris, Genoa, Italy
Match Preview
This Sunday at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, Sampdoria and Salernitana collide in the first leg of a high-stakes Serie B relegation playoff. Both clubs, steeped in Italian football history, are fighting to avoid the ignominy of a drop to Serie C—an outcome neither set of supporters would have imagined at the start of the season. For Sampdoria, European Cup finalists in the early ’90s, the threat of a first-ever relegation to the third tier has loomed large after a turbulent campaign. Their survival hopes were only revived by Brescia’s late points deduction, which nudged them into 17th place, just one point behind Salernitana.
Sampdoria approach this playoff on the back of a nervy but steady finish to the regular season. Under the guidance of their fourth coach this year, Alberico Evani, they have become difficult to beat, losing just once in their final six matches (two wins, three draws, one defeat). However, their lack of attacking punch has been glaring: six of their last seven games ended with under 2.5 goals, and they have managed just one goal in their last three outings. Their most recent result was a gritty 0-0 draw away to Juve Stabia, following a crucial 1-0 home win over Salernitana in early May—a result that could provide a psychological edge.
Salernitana, relegated from Serie A just last year, have also endured a season to forget but found late momentum to avoid automatic relegation. The Maroons won four of their last six league matches, including a 2-0 away triumph at Cittadella and a 2-0 home victory over Mantova. Despite this resurgence, their away form remains a concern, with only one win in their last 17 road games. Their last meeting with Sampdoria ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat, but they have enjoyed the better of this fixture in recent years, winning four of the last six encounters across all competitions.
Team news gives Salernitana a slight advantage: head coach Pasquale Marino has no reported injury or suspension concerns and is expected to field a full-strength side, with Simy leading the attack. Sampdoria, on the other hand, are hampered by the absences of Gennaro Tutino, Samuele Perisan, Giorgio Altare, and Pietro Beruatto—all key first-team players—forcing Evani to shuffle his lineup. This could impact their defensive solidity and attacking options, especially with Tutino (5 goals, 4 assists) sidelined.
Given the stakes and recent trends, expect a tense, cagey affair with few clear-cut chances. Both teams have struggled for goals, and the pressure of the occasion is likely to stifle attacking ambition. Sampdoria’s home advantage and recent head-to-head success could tip the balance, but Salernitana’s late-season form and full squad availability make them dangerous opponents. The first leg is likely to be decided by fine margins, with neither side wanting to take unnecessary risks before the return fixture.
Key Players
Sampdoria:
- Massimo Coda (Forward): 8 goals, 2 assists in 33 matches; the main goal threat.
- Fabio Depaoli (Defender): 4 goals, 2 assists; provides energy and width from the back.
- Remi Oudin (Midfielder): Creative hub, expected to step up in Tutino’s absence.
- Alessio Cragno (Goalkeeper): Experience could be crucial in a high-pressure tie.
Salernitana:
- Simy (Forward): 5 goals in 23 matches; physical presence up front.
- Franco Tongya (Winger): Offers pace and directness on the flank.
- Gian Marco Ferrari (Defender, Captain): Defensive leader, key for organization.
- Oliver Christensen (Goalkeeper): Reliable shot-stopper, vital in close games.
Prediction
Given Sampdoria’s strong home record against Salernitana and the visitors’ poor away form, the hosts are slight favourites to edge a low-scoring contest. However, with both sides struggling for goals and the tension of a relegation playoff, a draw or narrow Sampdoria win (1-0) appears most likely. Expect under 2.5 goals and at least one side failing to score.
Betting Markets & Odds
Market | Selection | Fractional Odds | Bet Now |
---|---|---|---|
Match Result | Sampdoria | 6/4 | Bet Now |
Match Result | Draw | 12/5 | Bet Now |
Match Result | Salernitana | 12/5 | Bet Now |
Under 2.5 Goals | Yes | 4/7 | Bet Now |
Both Teams to Score | No | 4/5 | Bet Now |
Correct Score | Sampdoria 1-0 | 11/2 | Bet Now |
Draw No Bet | Sampdoria | 4/9 | Bet Now |
Over 8.5 Total Corners | Yes | 10/11 | Bet Now |
Odds are approximate and subject to change. Always check the latest prices before betting.