Sampdoria rounded off their pre-season schedule with a frustrating 2-1 defeat at home to Novara on August 1, 2026, as the Serie C visitors produced a spirited second-half display to claim a notable friendly scalp. With the new season fast approaching, the result gave coach Andrea Pirlo plenty to think about, even if fitness and experimentation took priority over the scoreline.

Match Overview

Playing in front of their own supporters at the Luigi Ferraris stadium, Sampdoria started with intent and took control in the opening exchanges. Their passing was sharp, and they created the clearer chances in the first half, eventually taking the lead through a well-worked move that sliced through Novara's defensive block. The goal briefly settled the home side, who looked comfortable in possession and largely limited their visitors to long-range efforts.

Novara, however, refused to shrink from the occasion. Growing into the match as the second half progressed, the away side started pressing higher up the pitch and forcing errors from Sampdoria's makeshift back line. Their equalizer arrived after a quick transition down the right flank, finished confidently from close range. Sensing the momentum shift, Novara pushed for a winner and found it late on, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to roll the ball into an empty net.

Key Takeaways for Sampdoria

• Sharp start: The Blucerchiati looked fluid early on, moving the ball with purpose and creating openings in the final third.
• Second-half drop-off: Sampdoria's intensity dipped noticeably after the break, allowing Novara more time and space to play.
• Defensive concerns: With the Serie B opener approaching, the two conceded goals highlighted areas that still need tightening.

What It Means

For Novara, the win is a confidence boost ahead of their own league campaign, proving they can compete against a higher-division opponent when they keep their structure and press with discipline. For Sampdoria, this friendly serves as a useful learning experience rather than a crisis point. Pre-season results are often misleading, and Pirlo will know that key players are still building match sharpness. The priority now is to correct the tactical mistakes and arrive fully ready for the competitive fixtures that matter.

The match also gave the coaching staff a chance to look at several squad players and academy prospects, with the heavy rotation in the second half contributing to the loss of rhythm. As the final whistle blew, the Sampdoria players stayed on the pitch to acknowledge the fans, a reminder that the true test begins when the league season kicks off.