The sixteenth round of Serie B opens on Friday, December 12, with an intriguing clash between Palermo and Sampdoria. The home side have rediscovered their rhythm after two emphatic victories — 5-0 against Carrarese and 3-1 away at Empoli — results that have propelled them back into contention for the top spots. With renewed confidence and a strong home record, Palermo approach this fixture as clear favourites, while Sampdoria continue to battle near the bottom of the table, desperate for consistency and points to escape the relegation zone.

Palermo’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Palermo currently sit fifth in Serie B, boasting 26 points and a solid campaign so far. Their recent 3-1 win over Empoli on December 7 confirmed their resurgence, extending a positive run that now includes three wins, one draw, and just one defeat in their last five matches. During this period, they have averaged 2.8 goals scored per game while conceding only 0.6 — a testament to their attacking sharpness and defensive balance.

Across the season, Palermo’s record stands at 7 wins, 5 draws, and 3 losses, with an average of 1.6 goals scored and 0.7 conceded per match. Their home form has been particularly reliable, with only two of their last ten home fixtures featuring fewer than 0.5 goals. Another notable trend is that at least one team has failed to score before half-time in each of their last 20 matches, suggesting a pattern of cautious starts followed by stronger second halves.

• Ranking: 5th in Serie B


• Last 5 matches: 3W – 1D – 1L


• Average goals: 1.6 scored, 0.7 conceded


• Recent result: 3-1 win vs Empoli (07/12/2025)


• Home trend: Under 0.5 goals in 2 of last 10 home games

With a squad built for promotion and a coach who has restored belief, Palermo appear to be back on track. Their attacking efficiency, coupled with a disciplined backline, makes them a formidable opponent, especially in front of their supporters.

Sampdoria’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Sampdoria approach this match from a very different position. Despite a morale-boosting 3-2 win over Carrarese on December 7, they remain 19th in the standings with just 13 points. That victory was their second in the last three games, offering a glimmer of hope in their fight for survival. However, their overall record — 3 wins, 4 draws, and 8 defeats — underlines the difficulties they have faced throughout the campaign.

In their last five matches, Sampdoria have registered two wins and three losses, averaging 1.0 goal scored and 1.4 conceded per game. Their biggest weakness lies away from home: they have failed to win any of their last 20 away fixtures, including 18 consecutive winless trips in Serie B. Moreover, they have not led at half-time in their last 17 matches, and have conceded at least one goal in 19 of their last 20 away outings — a worrying trend that highlights their defensive fragility.

• Ranking: 19th in Serie B


• Last 5 matches: 2W – 0D – 3L


• Average goals: 1.0 scored, 1.5 conceded


• Recent result: 3-2 win vs Carrarese (07/12/2025)


• Away record: No wins in last 20 away matches

Although the team has shown some signs of improvement, their away form remains a major concern. To challenge Palermo, Sampdoria will need to deliver a disciplined and resilient performance, something they have rarely managed on the road this season.

Head-to-Head and Tactical Overview

Historically, the meetings between Palermo and Sampdoria have been balanced. In their last five encounters, Palermo have won once, drawn three times, and lost once, with an average of 1.2 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per match. Their most recent clash ended 1-1 on March 8, 2025, a result that reflected the competitive nature of this fixture.

However, current form and momentum clearly favour the home side. Palermo’s attacking rhythm and defensive solidity contrast sharply with Sampdoria’s struggles away from home. The hosts’ ability to control possession and create chances could prove decisive, especially against a side that often concedes early and struggles to recover.

For Sampdoria, the key will be to stay compact and exploit counterattacks, but their defensive record suggests that keeping a clean sheet will be a major challenge. Palermo, on the other hand, will look to impose their tempo early and maintain pressure throughout the match.

Palermo vs Sampdoria Prediction

All indicators point towards a home victory. Palermo’s superior form, attacking efficiency, and strong home record make them clear favourites, while Sampdoria’s poor away performances and defensive issues further tilt the balance. The win probabilities reinforce this outlook: Palermo 54%, Draw 25%, and Sampdoria 21%.

The most likely outcome is a Palermo win (1) with a 54% probability. The Draw (X) follows at 25%, while an Away win (2) stands at 21%.