GENOVA, Italy (Interstat) — Nicholas Pierini’s 58th-minute goal gave Sampdoria a 1-0 victory over Empoli FC in a Serie B match Monday at Stadio Comunale Luigi Ferraris.

The decisive play involved multiple substitutes, with Brando Moruzzi and Nicolas Haas each credited with an assist on Pierini’s finish. The win provided a rare bright spot for Sampdoria, which improved its league record to six wins. Empoli, which failed to score, saw its winless stretch extended.

The match grew contentious late, with four yellow cards issued in the final 15 minutes, including to Begić and Soleri, who also had an assist. The result diverged from pregame projections that heavily favored Sampdoria.