Italy Preview & Form
Entering Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, Italy displays significant potential to challenge the top teams. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, the Azzurri have shown remarkable determination and grit. Additionally, the appointment of Luciano Spalletti as head coach has been pivotal in reinvigorating the team’s strategy.
Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the squad, leading them to remain unbeaten in their last six friendly matches. Italy secured notable victories against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies and had a goalless draw at home against Turkey. Moreover, they edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game.
Looking forward to Group B, Italy aims to kick off their campaign with a strong performance against Albania. Spalletti and his squad will settle for nothing less than three points from this fixture to start their tournament on a high note.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania has qualified for Euro 2024 for only the second time in their history. Their qualification journey included impressive victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. Although Albania is considered the biggest underdog in Group B, their resilience and tenacity should not be underestimated.
In their upcoming matches, Albania will first face Italy, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. In recent friendlies, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. The team boasts a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, making them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Anticipating their clash, the probable starting lineups for both teams are as follows:
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 (Last Five Games)
Italy has a four-match winning streak against Albania, cementing their status as favorites for the upcoming clash. A victory would not only extend Italy's winning run but also place 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. 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. We predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.
In summary, Italy enters Euro 2024 with renewed vigor under Luciano Spalletti’s leadership, while Albania looks to prove themselves as resilient underdogs. As both teams prepare for their opening match, fans can expect a highly competitive and engaging clash.