Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge top teams. Despite their recent success in friendlies, it's important to remember that Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups. However, this history has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach.
Luciano Spalletti is the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy. Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, making them a formidable opponent. Under Spalletti, Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March, drawing 0-0 at home to Turkey, and edging 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 secured qualification for Euro 2024 for only the second time in their history, a monumental achievement for the team. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, demonstrating their potential 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 will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. In recent friendlies, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a comprehensive 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. With a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania remains an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with a backline of Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Alessandro Bastoni. The midfield consists of Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco, while Lorenzo Pellegrini operates just behind the forwards Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa.
On the other hand, Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper, supported by defenders Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj. The midfield lineup includes Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani, with Nedim Bajrami playing a more advanced role. Upfront, Albania relies on Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy's Euro 2024 squad is well-rounded, featuring star goalkeepers Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario. The defenders roster includes Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti. In midfield, Italy boasts Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. Their forward line includes Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania's Euro 2024 squad features goalkeepers Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. The defenders list includes Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla. For midfield, Albania has Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani. The forwards squad consists of Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania H2H Record (Last Five Games)
Italy has dominated the previous encounters, holding a four-match winning streak against Albania. As they prepare for their upcoming clash, Italy is the favorite, and a victory would extend their 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. 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.
As Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, it is evident that Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. Although Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, their current form suggests they are ready to make a significant impact. Meanwhile, Albania’s journey to Euro 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable. Their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked, making them a worthy opponent in this tournament.