Sampdoria took a significant step toward securing their Serie B status with a 2-0 win over Salernitana in the first leg of the relegation playout at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. Goals from midfielder Meulensteen and substitute defender Curto sealed the home side’s advantage ahead of the decisive return leg.
Both goals came from close range following scrappy moments inside the box, with Sampdoria’s players reacting quickest to the loose balls. The opener arrived in the 39th minute when Meulensteen headed home after a poor clearance by goalkeeper Christensen, with Ferrari providing the assist through a smart volleyed cross back into the area.
Sampdoria dominated large spells of the match, with forward Sibili repeatedly threatening the Salernitana goal but failing to convert his chances. The second goal was scored in the 86th minute, when a free kick from the left found its way to Curto, who calmly slotted the ball into the net from close range.
The closing stages were marred by rising tension and two red cards. Fabio Borini was sent off in the 91st minute for a reckless high challenge on Locoshvili, following a VAR review. Moments later, Stojanovic was also dismissed with a straight red card for a retaliatory foul during a heated exchange, as tempers flared over a refereeing decision in Sampdoria’s favor.
With a two-goal cushion, Sampdoria will head to the Stadio Arechi in Salerno for the second leg on Friday, June 20 at 8:30 PM, hoping to secure their place in Serie B for next season.
