BARI - A thrilling encounter at the Stadio San Nicola saw Bari and Sampdoria settle for a 1-1 draw on March 2, 2025, during the 28th round of Serie B. This match, marked by persistent rain and passionate play, illustrated the strengths and weaknesses of both teams as they continued their fight for points at this pivotal point of the season.
The game kicked off with Sampdoria appearing aggressive and pressing high, eager to capture valuable points. Bari struggled to find their rhythm, and it was the visitors who created the first chance of the match. Just three minutes in, Oudin’s effort was deflected for a corner by Bari's goalkeeper Radunovic after Benali lost the ball during the buildup.
Throughout the first half, Sampdoria dominated possession, creating multiple opportunities, including two significant shots hitting the woodwork. Oudin struck the bar from inside the area and then later hit the post with his powerful left foot, leaving the Bari defense scrambling.
Despite the chances, the deadlock was finally broken just before halftime. Following good work down the right flank by Akinsanmiro, his low cross found Niang, who clinically slotted home from close range, putting Sampdoria deservedly 1-0 up just before the break. This goal came as Bari appeared shell-shocked, having only managed one significant attack through Bonfanti who shot wide as the first half closed.
With spirits high, Sampdoria entered the second half confident, but Bari quickly turned the tide. Less than three minutes after the restart, Bari equalized through Maggiore, who headed home following Lasagna’s strike hitting the post from the edge of the area, turning the game on its head and igniting hope among the home fans.
The goal shifted the momentum and urgency onto Bari, who started playing with more intensity and determination. The hosting team sought to capitalize on their newfound energy, but Sampdoria responded by tightening their defense, showcasing resilience under pressure.
Thereafter, the game saw several tactical shifts, with both coaches introducing substitutes to maintain freshness among their squads. For Sampdoria, the introduction of experienced players like Coda brought additional technical skill to their attack, but attempts to regain the lead proved sinuous. On the other side, Bari seemed unable to find the necessary creativity to push for the win.
Numerous opportunities were missed by both sides; Niang and Altare came close for Sampdoria, but were unable to convert their chances as Bari's defense held firm. The second half turned increasingly physical, with the game's intensity reflected by the amount of yellow cards handed out—five cautions as players battled for control.
With the clock winding down, Bari appeared content to hold their slim pickings, opting to soak up pressure rather than chase victory. Conversely, Sampdoria's determination to reclaim the lead saw them pushing relentlessly, creating nail-biting moments where Radunovic had to act decisively. A powerful shot from Ioannou narrowly missed the target, raising concern among Bari fans.
After six minutes of added time, the whistle finally blew, concluding the match at 1-1. While this draw keeps Sampdoria slightly above the relegation zone at 15th place with 30 points, it felt more like missed opportunity for coach Semplici, who expressed his frustration at not converting several advantageous positions during the game.
Bari, now with 38 points, remain clinging to the middle of the pack, facing challenges as they gear up for their next tough encounter against league leaders Sassuolo. The match served as both an uplifting occasion for the fans, who saw the resolve of their home team, and as sobering for the players, prompting reflection on how they can improve going forward.
This matchup reaffirmed the historic bond between the two clubs, with passionate supporters represented both on and off the field. The next chapter of the Serie B campaign awaits as each side strives for advancement, knowing well the intensity and unpredictability this league brings.