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Mazzarri curses Samp luck Friday 3 August, 2007

Walter Mazzarri believes Sampdoria have been “unlucky” in drawing Hajduk Split in the UEFA Cup.

“They are a tough opponent, but we will do everything we can to go through to the next phase,” said the Coach after today’s draw.

“We certainly were unlucky. Hajduk Split have tradition, prestige and in their country have won consistently for many years.

“They have a squad of real quality and can count on a fiery atmosphere in their home games.”

The Blucerchiati reached the second qualifying round via the Intertoto Cup, where they eliminated Bulgarians Cherno More Varna 2-0 on aggregate.

That was former Reggina boss Mazzarri’s debut in European competition at club level.

The first leg will be played in Croatia on August 16, with the return at the Stadio Luigi 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, Bayern Munich, Fiorentina and the 16 sides eliminated in the third qualifying round of the Champions League.

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