Expect Cesena to line up in their usual 4-3-3, a shape that gives them width and a midfield triangle that can control tempo. They will look to press high, force Sampdoria into mistakes in their own third, and then knife through the lines with quick, direct passing. The full-backs will push on, creating overloads out wide, while the central midfielder drops between the centre-backs to start attacks. This is a side that wants to dominate possession at home, and they will not be shy about it.

Sampdoria, under their new-look squad, are likely to set up in a 4-3-3 as well, but do not expect them to be as bold. With Insigne and Sinani still learning their teammates' movements, they will probably sit a little deeper, looking to hit on the counter. The double pivot in midfield will try to screen the back four, but that leaves gaps in the half-spaces — exactly where Cesena's wide forwards like to drift. If Sampdoria's full-backs get dragged wide, the space between the lines opens up, and Cesena have the runners to exploit it. Set pieces could be a factor too — Cesena are physical, and they will fancy their chances against a Sampdoria defence that has not yet built its partnerships.

The game state? Cesena will dominate the ball. Sampdoria will try to stay compact and nick something on the break. But if Cesena score first, the Manuzzi will roar, and Sampdoria will have to come out — which plays right into Cesena's hands. This is a classic home-side trap game, and we love it.