Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams in Europe. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, the Italian squad has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. This fresh approach has proven effective in their recent matches, where Italy went unbeaten in six friendlies, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador, while drawing 0-0 at home against Turkey. The team also edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 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, setting a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania has secured qualification for only the second time in their history, making their journey to Euro 2024 nothing short of remarkable. Along the way, Albania achieved notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, demonstrating their resilience and tenacity.
Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's balanced mix of experience and youthful talent makes them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent. Their recent friendly matches saw them dominate Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcome Azerbaijan 3-1. These results highlight Albania's potential to challenge their more established rivals.
Albania will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. Their resilience and determination will be crucial as they aim to make an impact in this highly competitive group.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
For their opening clash, Italy is likely to field the following lineup: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni; Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, Federico Dimarco; Lorenzo Pellegrini; Gianluca Scamacca, Federico Chiesa.
On the other hand, Albania's probable lineup includes: 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's Euro 2024 squad comprises a mix of seasoned veterans and promising talents. The goalkeepers include Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario. Defenders feature Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti.
The midfielders are Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. Forwards include Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania's Euro 2024 squad also boasts a strong selection. Goalkeepers are Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. Defenders include Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla.
The midfielders are Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani. Forwards include Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania H2H Record
Italy has a dominant four-match winning streak against Albania, positioning them as the favorites 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
Given Italy's impressive form and tactical superiority, 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.
With Luciano Spalletti at the helm, Italy enters Euro 2024 with renewed confidence and a well-rounded squad, while Albania, driven by resilience and youthful talent, aims to make a significant impact despite being underdogs. Fans can expect an exciting matchup as both teams kick off their European Championship journey.