Sampdoria – Spezia

Spezia to get points in a crucial encounter

The defeat to Cremonese was almost fatal for Sampdoria. The Genoese dropped to last place in the table and the gap to 17th place only increased. They could have done something to improve their position - and improve their chances of survival - in the last matchday. Dejan Stankovic, even before the game, was beginning to make excuses. The Serbian lamented that, following their defeat at the hands of the Grigiorossi, the motivation for his charges would be difficult to find. But what motivation can be expected in a meeting against Lecce, who are sitting in 16th place? "The Seasiders were able to draw thanks to a goal from Hesa in the 75th minute. The result is hugely illogical on all counts. "The Giallorossi completely outplayed their opponents and definitely deserved three points: the hosts scored 3.04 xG goals on 30 shots. At the same time, Sampdoria created 0.67 goals per metric and took just eight shots toward their opponents' goal. At the moment, the teams are separated by ten points in the standings. It is obvious that Dejan Stankovic's side will not cover this gap with such a terrible game. With the calendar moving forward, the Genoese can slowly work on their youngsters for their Serie B appearance. Spezia took points from the restless Fiorentina but lost to Lazio in the next round. Sempilici's side missed three goals from Rome but they were unlikely to be any different. The Ligurians are still sitting in 17th place but Verona are beginning to reduce their deficit. "The Eagles are obviously aware of the importance of their next encounter. In addition to Sampdoria, the team will face Monza, Cremonese and Lecce. The obvious maximum for these games is 12 points. Semplici's side should start to fulfil it as early as this Saturday. It is important to note that La Spezia have lost only once in their last five meetings to the Genoese. The first leg ended in a 2-1 win for the Eagles. Sampdoria's defeats against their main rivals jeopardised their chances of survival. Obviously, the visitors are a lot more motivated in this meeting. The battle between two mediocre teams could well end in a draw. But it's safe to say that Semplici's side will not be beaten.