Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, highlighting their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy 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.
In their recent friendly matches, Italy went unbeaten, showcasing their form and readiness. In March, they secured wins against Venezuela and Ecuador. They also drew 0-0 at home against Turkey and 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, with Spalletti and his squad satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview & Form
In contrast, Albania has secured qualification for only the second time in their history, making their journey to Euro 2024 nothing short of remarkable. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, and 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. Recently, they dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win in friendlies and overcame Azerbaijan with a 3-1 victory. With a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania presents an unpredictable yet formidable challenge for their opponents.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup includes:
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 includes:
Etrit Berisha; Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, Mario Mitaj; Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani; Nedim Bajrami; Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Taulant Seferi.
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 favorites for the upcoming clash. A victory in this match 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. Understanding the importance of starting their campaign on a high note, Italy is predicted to triumph with a 2-0 scoreline. A victory in their opening match would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament, further solidifying their confidence and determination to make a significant impact in Euro 2024.
In summary, Italy enters the tournament with strong form and revitalized strategy under Spalletti, while Albania's journey has been remarkable, showcasing resilience and tenacity. The opening match between these two sides promises to be an intriguing battle, with Italy widely anticipated to secure the win.