Sampdoria took a huge step towards avoiding relegation to Serie C, a fate that would be a first in their history. They hosted Salernitana in the first leg of the Serie B relegation playoff and came out on top with a 2-0 win.
The home team had less possession but created more scoring chances. Midfielder Melle Meulensteen broke the deadlock just before halftime, scoring the opening goal in the 39th minute. In the second half, Salernitana increased the pressure but their attackers had an off day, failing to capitalize on their opportunities.
Sampdoria capitalized on Salernitana’s inefficiency, scoring again late in the game. Defender Marco Curto sealed the win with a goal in the 86th minute, making it 2-0. The match ended with two red cards, one for each team. Fabio Borini, formerly of Milan, Chelsea, and Liverpool, was sent off in the 91st minute, leaving Sampdoria with a man down. Then, in the final moments, Petar Stojanovic also received a red card, evening out the numbers.
Sampdoria now has the upper hand going into the second leg, scheduled for next Friday at 7:30 PM. The team from Genoa finished 18th in Serie B, which would have meant direct relegation to the third division. However, financial irregularities by Brescia allowed Sampdoria to compete in the relegation playoff, giving them a chance to avoid their worst nightmare.
What’s Next
The second leg of the playoff will be crucial in determining Sampdoria’s fate. A win or a draw with a score that keeps the aggregate score in their favor will see them avoid relegation. On the other hand, a loss could still see them safe if they manage to keep the aggregate score in their favor or if the match ends in a draw with a score that does not overturn their first-leg lead.
- Sampdoria won the first leg 2-0
- Second leg scheduled for next Friday at 7:30 PM
- Avoiding relegation would be a significant relief for the team