Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. The Azzurri's recent performances demonstrate their potential to challenge Europe’s top teams. Following a disappointing period in which they failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, which has revitalized their outlook on international competitions.
The driving force behind Italy's revamped strategy is Luciano Spalletti. Under his guidance, the squad has been injected with new vigor and tactical flexibility, making them a formidable opponent. Their unbeaten run features wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, a 0-0 draw at home against Turkey, and a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game.
As Italy prepares to face Albania in their opening Group B match, the expectation is clear: nothing but three points will suffice. Spalletti and his squad aim for a strong start to the tournament, setting the stage for a successful campaign.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania, meanwhile, has secured qualification for only the second time in their history. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, which have marked them as a resilient and tenacious side. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania’s resilience cannot be overlooked.
In the run-up to the tournament, Albania demonstrated their potential with impressive friendly match performances, including a 3-0 win against Liechtenstein and a 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan. Boasting a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania is an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Facing Italy in their opening match, Albania understands the challenges that lie ahead. With encounters against Croatia and Spain also on the horizon, the team will need to capitalize on their resilience and tactical preparation to make an impact in the group stage.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy’s probable lineup is as follows:
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 is as follows:
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)
Italy has a four-match winning streak against Albania, making them the favorite for the upcoming clash. A victory in this match would not only extend Italy's winning run but also put them in an advantageous 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. Understanding the importance of kick-starting their campaign on a high note, Italy aims to set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. Our prediction sees Italy emerging triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.
In conclusion, Italy, buoyed by their unbeaten streak and strategic ingenuity under Spalletti, look poised to make a strong statement in their opener against Albania. On the other hand, Albania’s journey to Euro 2024, marked by resilience and surprise victories, suggests they should not be underestimated.