Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their readiness to challenge Europe’s elite. With their recent performances, the Azzurri have displayed both flair and resilience, signaling their intent to make a significant impact in the tournament. This resurgence comes on the back of a bitter past where Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, a fact that has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach.
Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy’s revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the squad. Under Spalletti’s guidance, Italy has adopted a more dynamic and versatile approach. This shift was evident in their recent friendly matches where they went unbeaten, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador while drawing 0-0 at home to Turkey. They capped off their preparations with a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game.
Italy aims for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match. For Spalletti and his squad, nothing less than three points from this fixture will suffice as they look to establish an early advantage in the group.
Albania Preview & Form
For Albania, qualifying for Euro 2024 marks only the second time in their history that they have reached such heights. Their journey to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, underscoring their potential to upset the traditional powerhouses. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania’s resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Their tournament journey begins with a challenging encounter against Italy, followed by tough matches against Croatia and Spain. However, Albania’s recent form in friendly matches has been promising. They dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1, showcasing a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent.
Albania, with its unpredictable yet formidable squad, promises to be a tough opponent for any team, as they look to defy the odds and make a significant impact in the tournament.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Both teams will look to field their strongest lineups for this crucial opening match.
Italy's probable lineup: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni; Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, Federico Dimarco; Lorenzo Pellegrini; Gianluca Scamacca, Federico Chiesa.
Albania's probable lineup: Etrit Berisha; Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, Mario Mitaj; Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani; Nedim Bajrami; Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy Euro 2024 Squad:
Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, Guglielmo Vicario.
Defenders: Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, Federico Gatti.
Midfielders: Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Nicolo Fagioli.
Forwards: Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania Euro 2024 Squad:
Goalkeepers: Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, Thomas Strakosha.
Defenders: Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, Marash Kumbulla.
Midfielders: Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, Ylber Ramadani.
Forwards: Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania H2H Record (Last Five Games)
The head-to-head record favors Italy, who have a four-match winning streak against Albania. This history establishes Italy as the favorites for the upcoming clash. A victory in this match would not only extend Italy’s winning run but also put them in a strong position in Group B.
Italy vs Albania Prediction and Betting Tips
Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. The significance of starting their campaign on a high note cannot be overstated for the Azzurri. A victory in their opening match would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.
We predict that Italy will emerge triumphant, likely with a 2-0 scoreline, as they embark on their quest for Euro 2024 glory.