Italy Preview and Form
Italy enters the Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, the Italian squad has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, reflecting a revamped strategy under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti. Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, making them a formidable opponent.
In their last six friendly matches, Italy went unbeaten, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies. They managed a 0-0 draw at home against Turkey and narrowly defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina with a 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game. This form highlights their readiness and ambition as they aim for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match. Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview and Form
Albania has secured qualification for only the second time in their history, marking this as a significant achievement for the team. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, demonstrating that they cannot be easily dismissed as the biggest underdog in Group B. Albania's resilience and tenacity are crucial qualities that they will bring to the competition.
In preparation for the Euro 2024, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1 in friendlies. This mix of experience and youthful talent makes Albania an unpredictable yet formidable opponent. They will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. How they perform in these fixtures will be closely watched by fans and critics alike.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
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.
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)
Historically, Italy has a strong record against Albania, boasting a four-match winning streak. This makes Italy the favorite for the upcoming clash. A victory would not only extend their 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. The Italian squad understands the importance of starting their campaign on a high note. A victory in their opening match would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. Therefore, it is predicted that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.
As Euro 2024 kicks off, all eyes will be on the Italian and Albanian teams as they battle it out on the field. With Spalletti at the helm, Italy's revamped strategy and unbeaten streak make them a team to watch. Meanwhile, Albania's remarkable journey to the tournament and their underdog status add an element of unpredictability to the match. Football fans around the world can look forward to an exciting and closely contested game.