Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters the Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. Their recent performances highlight their potential to challenge the top teams and make a significant impact in the tournament. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has fortified their approach with a new layer of determination and grit currently spearheaded by Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy’s revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. Italy's new brand of football is evident as they went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, drawing 0-0 at home to Turkey, and edging out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game.
As they aim for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match, the expectation is clear — Spalletti and his squad will settle for nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania, qualifying for only the second time in their history, has shown resilience and tenacity on their journey to Euro 2024. Notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic marked their path to the tournament, setting the stage for what could be a Cinderella story in Group B. Although perceived as the biggest underdog, Albania’s determination should not be underestimated.
Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a convincing 3-0 win in friendlies and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1 in another preparatory match. With a balanced mix of experienced players and youthful talent, Albania remains an unpredictable yet formidable opponent as they face Italy in their opening match. Following this, they will encounter challenging games against Croatia and Spain.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup is expected to feature Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni in defense; Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, Federico Dimarco in midfield; Lorenzo Pellegrini supporting forwards Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa.
Albania’s probable lineup includes Etrit Berisha as goalkeeper; Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, Mario Mitaj in defense; Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani in midfield, with Nedim Bajrami, Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi forming the attacking quartet.
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 and is the favorite for the upcoming clash. A victory would extend Italy's winning run and 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 starting their campaign on a high note, Italy aims to set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. A victory in their opening match would not only boost their confidence but also their standing in the group. We predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.
In summary, Italy’s journey to Euro 2024 showcases a team reborn under Spalletti’s guidance, while Albania enters as a determined underdog with nothing to lose. The opening match between these two teams promises to be a clash of styles and wills, with Italy looking to affirm their status as tournament contenders.