Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. The recent performances of the Azzurri demonstrate their potential to challenge the top teams in Europe. However, it is worth noting that Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, adding a layer of determination and grit to their approach this time around.
Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy’s revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. Under Spalletti's guidance, Italy has gone unbeaten in their last six friendly matches. Notable victories include wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, and a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the final European Championship warm-up game. A disappointing 0-0 draw at home to Turkey does serve as a reminder that there is still work to be done.
In their opening Group B match, Italy aims for a strong start against Albania. Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture to set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania secured qualification for Euro 2024 for only the second time in their history, marking a significant achievement for the nation. Their path to the tournament featured notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, showcasing their resilience and tenacity. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdogs in Group B, Albania’s journey to Euro 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable.
The team will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. In recent friendlies, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. A balanced mix of experience and youthful talent makes Albania an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Here are the probable lineups for both teams:
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
Italy has a four-match winning streak against Albania, making them the favorite for the upcoming clash. A victory would not only extend Italy’s 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 under Luciano Spalletti, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. Italy understands the importance of starting their campaign on a high note, and 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.
In conclusion, Italy enters Euro 2024 with a newfound resolve and tactical edge, while Albania’s resilience and tenacity ensure they cannot be overlooked. The opening clash between these two teams promises to be an exciting encounter, with Italy favored to take the win and boost their prospects in Group B.