Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with a commendable six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Despite not qualifying for the last two World Cups, Italy has revamped their strategy, incorporating determination and grit under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti, who has significantly rejuvenated the squad with new vigor and tactical flexibility.
In their recent performances, Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches. They secured wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies and drew 0-0 at home to Turkey. Additionally, they edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game. As they aim 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.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania, securing qualification for only the second time in their history, embarked on a remarkable journey to Euro 2024. Their path to the tournament was paved with notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. While Albania is perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Albania will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. In their recent form, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win in friendlies and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. With a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania presents an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
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
In the last five games between Italy and Albania, Italy has maintained a four-match winning streak against the Albanians. Italy stands as the favorite for the upcoming clash, and a victory would not only extend their winning run but also place them in an advantageous position in Group B.
Italy vs Albania Prediction and Betting Tips
Italy is expected to secure a win against Albania, as they emphasize the importance of starting their campaign on a high note. Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority, they are projected to emerge triumphant. A predicted scoreline of 2-0 in favor of Italy would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.
Italy's entry into Euro 2024 with a solid unbeaten streak and a revitalized strategy under Luciano Spalletti makes them formidable opponents. Meanwhile, Albania's journey and resilience add an interesting dynamic to their encounters. As they go head-to-head, the match promises to be an engaging clash, with Italy keen to assert their dominance and Albania ready to prove their mettle.