Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 on the back of an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. Their recent performances highlight their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, signaling a newfound resilience under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies. They also drew 0-0 at home against Turkey and narrowly edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game.
Italy aims 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 & Form
Albania has secured qualification for Euro 2024, only the second time in their history. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. Dubbed the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
In their recent friendlies, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. They boast a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, making them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Albania will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. Despite being seen as outsiders, Albania's journey to Euro 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable.
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.
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 would extend Italy's winning run and put them in an advantageous position in Group B.
Italy vs. Albania Prediction and Betting Tips
Italy is expected to secure a win against Albania, given their impressive form and tactical superiority. Understanding 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.
We predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline. Luciano Spalletti's Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak and a tactical flexibility that should see them through. On the other hand, Albania’s resilience and tenacity, though noteworthy, might not be enough to withstand Italy's current form.
Ultimately, the match offers a promising start to what should be an exciting Group B campaign, with Italy eager to make a statement and Albania looking to defy the odds.