UC: Split test for Samp

Sampdoria were handed a tough draw in the UEFA Cup second qualifying round as they will face Croatian outfit Hajduk Split.

The Blucerchiati, who qualified from the Intertoto Cup, were seeded in Group 2 in the Southern subdivision, as the 64 clubs involved in the draw were divided into three geographical groups.

Walter Mazzarri’s men were hoping to avoid the Croatian club, who were considered the strongest amongst their possible opponents and are renowned for their enthusiastic supporters.

The first leg against former Juve defender Igor Tudor’s side will be played in Croatia on August 16, while the return will be at the Stadio Ferraris on August 30.

The 32 winners of the second qualifying round will enter the first round proper, which is also staged over two legs on September 20 and October 4.

That round will include, among others, four-time European champions Bayern Munich, Fiorentina and the 16 sides eliminated in the third qualifying round of the Champions League.

The UEFA Cup Final will be played at the City of Manchester Stadium on May 14, 2008.

Source: C4 Football Italia / UEFA