Gigi Del Neri has liken Sampdoria's derby clash against Genoa as a "Champions League Final".

Sampdoria lost both their derby matches last season and are aiming to reclaim bragging rights.

"It's not a game, it's the derby. It's like a Champions League Final," Del Neri said at a Press Conference in Bogliasco.

"Going into this challenge ahead on points means nothing. It's too special a game because this can really count."

Asked for his reaction to Genoa boss Gian Piero Gasperini's decision to praise Sampdoria, Del Neri replied: "I would like to thank him again and let him know that I also think the same about Genoa.

"Gasperini has given a well defined attitude to his team and important results demonstrate that fact. Genova has to be proud of its teams and tomorrow's derby should be worthy of what the city represents," he concluded.

Sampdoria are four points above their city rivals in the table.