Sampdoria - Catanzaro

Can Sampdoria find a spark to ignite their season as they host Catanzaro on 19 September 2026 for matchday 5 of the Serie B? The hosts are looking to move past a difficult run of results, including a recent 2-0 defeat to Mantova. Managerial focus will likely centre on the attacking partnership of Gennaro Tutino and Lorenzo Insigne, who are expected to lead the line. Their defensive stability will be tested without the injured Mattia Viti, placing extra pressure on Stefan Gartenmann and Filippo Delli Carri to anchor the backline in front of goalkeeper Peter Vindahl Jensen.

Catanzaro arrive with renewed confidence after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Carrarese. Their expected XI features the creative midfield duo of Simone Pafundi and Jacopo Petriccione, tasked with feeding forwards Emanuele Pecorino and Pietro Iemmello. While recent history between these sides has been tight, including two goalless draws during the previous campaign, the visitors will aim to exploit Sampdoria's current vulnerability. Both sides have struggled for rhythm early in the season, making this clash a critical opportunity to establish momentum.