Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, highlighting their potential to challenge the tournament's top teams. Despite their recent performances, Italy's journey to this point has not been without its setbacks. The Azzurri failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, a fact that has added an extra layer of determination and grit to their approach this time around.
Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the squad. Spalletti's influence is evident in Italy's unbeaten streak, which includes notable wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, as well as a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game. Even a goalless draw at home against Turkey showcased Italy's defensive resilience.
Italy opens their Group B campaign against Albania with high expectations. Spalletti and his squad aim for nothing less than three points from this fixture, understanding the importance of a strong start to set the tone for the rest of the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania's qualification for Euro 2024 marks only the second time in their history that they have reached the tournament. Their path to this achievement included notable victories against stronger teams like Poland and the Czech Republic, making Albania a dark horse in Group B. While they are perceived as the biggest underdog in the group, their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Albania's recent form in friendlies has been impressive. They dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan with a 3-1 victory. The squad boasts a balanced mix of experienced players and youthful talent, making them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent. Albania's opening match against Italy will be a significant test, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup for the match includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with defenders Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni, and Andrea Cambiaso. The midfield is likely to feature Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco, with Lorenzo Pellegrini playing just ahead of them. The frontline is expected to feature Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa.
Albania is expected to field Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper, with defenders Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj. The midfield could include Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani, with Nedim Bajrami playing a more advanced role. Up front, Albania may rely on Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy's Euro 2024 squad comprises goalkeepers Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario. The defenders include Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti. The midfielders are Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. The forwards include Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania's squad features goalkeepers Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. The defenders are Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla. The midfielders include Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani. The forward line consists of Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania: H2H Record and Prediction
Italy holds a four-match winning streak against Albania, making them the favorite 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. Given Italy's current 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, and 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, further solidifying their status as a contender in Euro 2024.
"Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak," highlighting their potential as strong competitors. With Luciano Spalletti at the helm, "Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups," but now, under his guidance, they have added "determination and grit" to their approach.
On the other hand, "Albania’s journey to Euro 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable." Despite being the underdogs, "Albania's resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked." Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority, they are expected to secure a win against Albania, commencing their Euro 2024 campaign on a winning note.