Spezia — Sampdoria : Match Preview and Prediction for August 18,2025
Spezia Overview
Match Context: A Battle for Redemption
This upcoming encounter promises to be an engaging battle between two clubs that narrowly avoided relegation from Serie B last season. Spezia came incredibly close to securing promotion to Serie A, ultimately losing to Cremonese in the playoff final. Meanwhile, Sampdoria just managed to escape dropping into Serie C by defeating Salernitana in the relegation playoffs.
Recent Form and Defensive Record
Spezia has engaged in five friendly matches since the conclusion of the previous season. They emerged victorious in three of these fixtures, suffered a defeat against Lecce, and played to a draw with Cittadella. Notably, they conceded goals in three of these preparatory games. During their last league campaign, Spezia allowed 37 goals across 42 matches, keeping a clean sheet in only 16 of those outings.
Squad Changes and Key Transfers
The “Eaglets” have seen several key players depart during the offseason. Both goalkeepers, Gori and Sarr, have left the club. Defender Bertola, midfielder Kouda, and forward Esposito, who netted 19 goals last season, have also moved on. However, there have been new arrivals to bolster the squad. Aurelo and Candela are expected to strengthen the flanks, while striker Vlahovic carries the primary responsibility for offensive output.
Sampdoria Overview
Sailing Back to Form: Squad Reinforcements
Sampdoria, much like Spezia, was playing in Italy’s top division just two years ago. Following their challenging and almost catastrophic previous season, the club has drawn conclusions and significantly reinforced its squad. According to coach Evani, new acquisitions like Sekulov, Ferri, Tutino, Bellemo, and Cuni (a familiar name to Rubin Kazan fans) are expected not only to adequately replace the experienced Niang but also to strengthen the midfield and attacking lines.
Pre-Season Performance and Offensive Momentum
The “Sailors” enjoyed a productive pre-season period, participating in four friendlies. They remained undefeated, securing victories in three of those matches. They also found the net in three of these contests, notably scoring eight goals against Niova Camuna. While the team only managed 37 goals in 42 matches last season, their successful work in the transfer market appears to be already positively impacting their attacking dynamics.
Absences and Defensive Concerns
Regrettably for the fans, Romagnoli, Malagira, and Altare will be unavailable for the upcoming match. These absences could significantly weaken Sampdoria’s defense. However, for the purpose of this prediction, their defensive strength is less critical than their attacking prowess.
Prediction: Unpacking the Favorites and Underdogs
Spezia is being tipped as the favorite here, but I’m not entirely convinced. While home advantage is undeniably a factor, the “Sailors” have avoided defeat in three of their eight visits to Spezia. Furthermore, they have remained unbeaten in their last three away games, including a dominant 3-0 victory against Salernitana in their most recent road fixture. This recent strong away form is precisely what I’m looking for from them.
Italian Football League
Mark Thompson
