Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge some of the top teams in Europe. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, adding grit to their approach.
Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. Spalletti's influence is clearly visible in Italy's recent performances, where 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 narrowly edging out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game.
Italy is aiming 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, as a victory here would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament and put Italy in an advantageous position in Group B.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania secured qualification for Euro 2024 for only the second time in their history, marking a significant achievement for the team. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, as Albania demonstrated resilience and tenacity throughout their qualifying campaign.
While Albania is perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, their resilience cannot be overlooked. Albania will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. However, their recent performances in friendly matches, including a commanding 3-0 win against Liechtenstein and a 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan, show that they are an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Albania boasts a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, which could prove invaluable in their campaign. They will be looking to make an impact and defy the odds in their group stage matches.
Italy vs. Albania: Starting Lineups
For their opening match, Italy's probable lineup includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with defenders Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Alessandro Bastoni. In the midfield, Italy is expected to field Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco, while Lorenzo Pellegrini will play a more advanced role. Upfront, Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa are likely to spearhead the attack.
Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper, with defenders Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj. The midfield will likely be anchored by Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani, with Nedim Bajrami playing further forward. In attack, Albania could field Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi.
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 a strong position within 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. Starting their campaign on a high note is crucial for Italy, and a victory in their opening match would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. Our prediction is that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.
Italy's journey in Euro 2024 begins with promise and potential. Luciano Spalletti’s influence has been transformative, and with a talented squad at his disposal, Italy looks poised to make a significant impact in the tournament. Similarly, Albania's resilience and determination cannot be discounted, as they will be eager to prove their mettle on the European stage.