Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, raising expectations and hopes among fans and pundits alike. Italy's recent performances indicate their potential to challenge the top teams in Europe, showcasing a blend of solid defense and tactical versatility.
However, it’s worth noting that Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups. This painful memory has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, pushing them to prove their mettle on the continental stage.
The mastermind behind Italy’s resurgence is Luciano Spalletti. Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, making Italy a formidable opponent in every sense. Under his guidance, Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches. This streak includes notable wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, alongside a 0-0 draw at home to Turkey and a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in the final European Championship warm-up game.
As Italy prepares for their opening Group B match against Albania, Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture. A strong start is imperative for Italy to build momentum and confidence as the tournament progresses.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania is entering Euro 2024 with high spirits, having secured qualification for only the second time in their history. Their journey to the tournament has been a remarkable story in itself, with notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic highlighting their qualification campaign.
Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania’s resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked. They boast a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, making them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent for any team.
Albania faces a challenging schedule, commencing their campaign against Italy before taking on Croatia and Spain in the subsequent games. Their recent form in friendlies has been promising, with dominant wins against Liechtenstein (3-0) and Azerbaijan (3-1).
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup is expected to feature Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with a defensive setup including Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Alessandro Bastoni. In the midfield, Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco are likely to support the attacking trio of Lorenzo Pellegrini, Gianluca Scamacca, and Federico Chiesa.
On the other side, Albania's probable lineup includes Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper, with Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj forming the defensive line. The midfield will likely see Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani, with Nedim Bajrami playing a pivotal role. Upfront, Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi are expected to lead the attack.
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy’s squad for Euro 2024 includes:
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 squad for Euro 2024 includes:
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 in this game would not only extend Italy's winning run but also 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 likely to aim for a dominant performance.
We predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline, setting a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. As always, in football, there are no certainties, but Italy's preparation and current form suggest they have the upper hand in this fixture.