Sampdoria – Mantova

Sampdoria host Mantova in what looks like a classic underdog showdown, with the hosts languishing in 18th place on just four points after one win, one draw and three defeats, and a modest –5 goal difference (5‑9). Mantova sit comfortably in third, boasting eleven points from an unbeaten run of three victories and two stalemates, and a healthy +5 margin on the board (10‑5). The gap in form is stark, and Sampdoria will need to tighten up defensively while finding a way past a Mantova side that has yet to taste defeat this season. For Mantova, the challenge is to maintain their momentum on the road and keep the pressure on the relegation‑bound clubs above them. Both teams know that three points could prove decisive in the battle for survival and promotion alike.