Italy Preview and Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 riding high on an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, signaling their intent to challenge Europe's elite teams. This consistent performance demonstrates their readiness and potential to contend at the highest levels, despite their recent shortcomings on the global stage. Notably, Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, a statistic that has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach.
Under the astute leadership of Luciano Spalletti, Italy's strategy has undergone a significant overhaul. Spalletti has injected fresh vigor and tactical flexibility into the squad, which has shown in their unbeaten run in friendly matches. Victories against Venezuela and Ecuador in March highlighted their prowess, while a 0-0 draw at home to Turkey and a narrow 1-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up displayed their versatility and defensive solidity.
Looking ahead to their opening Group B match against Albania, Italy is aiming for a strong start. The team and their fans will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture, essential for building early momentum in the tournament.
Albania Preview and Form
Albania, on the other hand, has secured qualification for just the second time in their history. Their journey to the tournament has been commendable, highlighted by notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. However, they are widely perceived as the biggest underdogs in Group B.
Despite this perception, Albania's resilience and tenacity are qualities that cannot be overlooked. They head into the tournament with a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, making them an unpredictable and potentially formidable opponent.
In addition to Italy, Albania will face challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain, adding to their tall order to advance. Recent friendly wins, including a dominant 3-0 victory over Liechtenstein and a 3-1 triumph against Azerbaijan, have shown their capability to perform well under pressure.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
The probable starting lineup for Italy features Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with a defensive setup including Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Alessandro Bastoni. In midfield, Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco are expected to start, supported by Lorenzo Pellegrini in a more advanced role. Up front, Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa will lead the attack.
For Albania, Etrit Berisha will likely be the man between the sticks, with a defensive lineup comprising Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj. The midfield is expected to feature Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani, with Nedim Bajrami providing creativity. The attacking trio may consist of Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy's Euro 2024 squad includes:
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's Euro 2024 squad includes:
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, underscoring their dominance in this fixture. This winning streak makes Italy the favorites for the upcoming clash, and a victory would extend their run and position them advantageously in Group B.
Italy vs Albania Prediction and Betting Tips
Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority under Luciano Spalletti, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. 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. Our prediction is that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline, setting them on a promising trajectory for Euro 2024.