Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Despite their recent strong performances, it's worth noting that Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups. This history has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, highlighting their aim to prove themselves on the international stage once more.
Luciano Spalletti is the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy. Under Spalletti's guidance, the team has gained new vigor and tactical flexibility. Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, a sign of their growing confidence. Among these, they secured wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, drew 0-0 at home to Turkey, and edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in the 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, hoping to set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
For Albania, securing qualification for only the second time in their history is a remarkable achievement. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, highlighting their capability to compete at a high level. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Albania, facing Italy in their opening match, will then have challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. In their recent friendlies, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. The team's balanced mix of experience and youthful talent makes them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni in defense; Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco in midfield; Lorenzo Pellegrini; with Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa leading the attack.
Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper; with Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj in defense; Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani in midfield; Nedim Bajrami; and Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi in the attack.
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy's 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's 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 holds a four-match winning streak against Albania, making them 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
Italy is expected to secure a win against Albania. They understand 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. Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority, a 2-0 scoreline in favor of Italy seems a likely outcome.