The derby's name is derived from the Torre della Lanterna, the ancient landmark and the main lighthouse for the city's port. Like the Rome derby, the fans of each side generally have their own area of the city, with the Genoa supporters in the center, and the Sampdoria supporters in the surrounding areas. Criminally overlooked everywhere outside the peninsula, the Derby Della Lanterna between Genoa and Sampdoria remains one of Italy's most intense rivalries. The passion from the tifosi is unreal; the perfect demonstration coming when Genoa ultra's held a funeral procession (scroll down to the 2nd video on the page) for newly relegated Sampdoria!

Already, Genoa youth goalkeeping coach Luca De Pra was caught attempting to steal information by spying on a Sampdoria training session. Not only was he spying, but he was caught dressed in military style fatigues to avoid being seen! Italian newspapers have described the incident as something out of Rambo, and Sylvester Stallone has gone on record saying he has never met Mr. De Pra (kidding). If that isn't passion, and dedication, not much is. While Genoa have released a statement saying they do not condone the behaviour, isn't that exactly the kind of press lease one would have expected? Regardless, you can see the type of match it is shaping up to be.

With the match set for 18.45 GMT, this Sunday evening, let's take a look at how both sides have fared thus far this season.

Genoa

Genoa's recent form is enough to make a baby cry, but the talent is present for a return to mediocrity at the very least. Summer signing Francesco Lodi admitted as much when he mentioned that it takes time for new signings to become acclimated, so despite the 2-5 thrashing by Fiorentina, and 0-2 reverse to Inter, the jury is still out on Genoa. If Genoa's management can figure out how to get the talent to gel, or replace themselves with people who can, they have the potential to be a top 10 side (the current coaching staff is not one I'd want coaching my favourite side).

I mentioned new signings for Genoa, and it is primarily new signings which should be eyed on Sunday. Francesco Lodi is one of the more underrated midfielders on the peninsula, and Alberto Gilardino is undergoing a resurgence in form that increases as his hairline fades. Midfielders Andrea Bertolacci and Juraj Kucka, as well as wing back Luca Antonelli are also players who could make a serious impact on the proceedings, especially Kucka.

In a slightly less gratifying way, Mattia Perin has also landed himself on the look list after a bloody abysmal performance against Fiorentina. Unless the youngster can bounce back, it could be a very good day for Sampdoria's strikers. 

Expected line - up:

Perin

Vrsaljko - Portanova - Manfredini - Antonelli

Cofie - Lodi - Kucka

Santana - Bertolacci

Gilardino

Sampdoria

Sampdoria doesn't look much better at first glance, but in reality have been the much stronger side to start the campaign. A 1-0 defeat to Juventus to start the season is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when that result is sandwiched by Juventus's 4-0 and 4-1 destructions of Lazio. A 2-2 draw in the Blucerchiati's second match against Bologna leaves a bit to be desired, but Bologna are not pushover. Sampdoria certainly seem to be finding their stride much quicker than Genoa, all that remains to be seen is how the international break faired for both sides.

Manolo Gabbiadini has impressed very much since his arrival at Sampdoria. The young striker scored a spectacular set piece last week, and looks to continue his good form on Sunday. Angelo Palombo and Lorenzo Di Silvestri will also be players worth looking, as the latter leads the side in tackles having already made 7 over two games.

Expected line-up:

A. D. Costa

Mustafi - Palombo - A. Costa

De Silvestri - Obiang - Kristicic - Renan - Regini

Eder - Gabbiadini

Prediction

Being a derby, I probably don't have to tell you that form, standings, and prior knowledge get kicked to the curb when these two sides take the pitch. When Sampdoria has that form, Genoa recently celebrated their 120th birthday; a fact they take pride in as they are the oldest side in Italy. In what will be an incredibly passionate, hard-fought match, this writer is backing Sampdoria to take the spoils 2-1.