Subdued Steaua head for Genoa

League defeat
Having won 4-0 against RC Lens on Matchday 1, Steaua were brought down to earth at the weekend with a 1-0 home reverse against Romanian rivals FC Gloria 1922 Bistrita. Now they are hoping to regain their composure despite the absence of captain Mirel Radoi who has an ankle injury.

Psychological blow
"From a psychological point of view, it will be very difficult to recover from the home defeat against Gloria," said defender Sorin Ghionea. "But we, the players, are the only ones to blame and we have to put things right. The first opportunity to do that will be the match at Sampdoria."

Sampdoria defence
Sampdoria, who play their first group-stage game, have no fresh injuries with defender Giulio Falcone ready to return to the bench although he is unlikely to start. The defence is a worry for Walter Novellino's side who have conceded 17 goals in ten Italian Serie A outings.

Inter result
Saturday's 2-2 home draw with FC Internazionale Milano saw defender Marcello Castellini dropped in favour of Luigi Sala. Novellino may opt for continuity on Thursday. "We just need to pay more attention in some situations like set-pieces," explained the coach. "However, I'm confident we can play well against Steaua. We were good against Inter and if we play like that, we have a good chance of taking three points."