As Sami, your Infantry move faster and capture properties quicker. On Turn 1, send all available Infantry towards the neutral cities closest to your starting position, prioritizing those in the center of the map. Begin building Mechs from your HQ as soon as possible. Mechs are excellent defensive units and can deal significant damage to Tanks in close combat, especially with Sami's bonus. Max will likely advance his Tanks aggressively.
Position your Mechs in defensive terrain like woods or mountains if available, creating a strong front line. Use your Infantry to continue capturing cities, expanding your income. If you have Artillery, position them behind your front line to provide indirect fire support against Max's advancing units. Be mindful of Max's CO Power; if he activates 'Max Force', his Tanks will hit much harder. Try to bait him into attacking your well-defended Mechs or weaker units that can be easily replaced.