Sampdoria vs Entella Prediction & Betting Tips (16 January)

Sampdoria approach this meeting with Entella still carrying the weight of a difficult period, highlighted most sharply by their 3‑1 defeat in the Ligurian derby on 17 October 2025Sky Sports+4. That loss extended a worrying trend for the Blucerchiati, who have struggled to find consistency in Serie B and have faced increasing pressure around the future of coach Massimo Donati, whose position has been reported as at risk in recent weeksCalciomercato.com. Their recent matches have shown flashes of competitiveness, such as Massimo Coda’s late goal in that derby, but overall the team has lacked the stability needed to climb the table. With the club even entering a brief period of silence toward the media after the derby lossCalciomercato.com, the atmosphere around Sampdoria has been tense and uncertain.

Entella, on the other hand, come into this clash with a sense of momentum and renewed confidence. Their 3‑1 victory over Sampdoria in the same October derby was historic, marking the first-ever meeting between the two sides in Serie B and ending in a triumphant result for the Chiavari clubLa Gazzetta dello Sport+1. That match showcased their strong home form, as they remained unbeaten at their stadium and climbed to nine points in the standingsLa Gazzetta dello Sport+1. The goals from Debenedetti, Franzoni, and Tiritiello demonstrated a team capable of both intensity and composure, and their recent performances have suggested a squad that is growing in belief and tactical cohesion. Their ability to create multiple scoring chances in that match further underlined their upward trajectory.

Looking at the broader context of the past two months, both teams have been navigating contrasting narratives. Sampdoria’s struggles have been compounded by defensive lapses and an inability to convert key moments, while Entella have been praised for their organization and the emergence of several standout performers. The derby result has continued to shape the conversation around both clubs, with Entella’s victory seen as a potential turning point in their season, while Sampdoria’s defeat has intensified scrutiny on their tactical approach and squad depth. As they prepare to meet again, the psychological edge appears to lean toward Entella, who have shown greater stability and clearer identity in recent outings.

Despite the differing trajectories, matches between sides in transition often produce tight, tense affairs, and this encounter could follow that pattern. Sampdoria will be desperate to steady their season, while Entella will aim to reinforce their recent progress with another disciplined performance. Given the defensive caution both sides may adopt and the pressure surrounding the fixture, a low-scoring contest feels likely. Our prediction for this match is a 0‑0 correct score, reflecting the possibility of a cagey, tactical battle where neither team manages to break through.