Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 riding high on an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. Their recent performances indicate a strong potential to challenge Europe's top teams. Despite missing out on the last two World Cups, Italy has injected fresh determination and grit into their gameplay. This renewed vigor can largely be attributed to Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy’s revamped strategy. Spalletti has brought new energy and tactical flexibility to the team, which has reflected in their unbeaten run over the last six friendly matches.
Notably, Italy secured solid wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, demonstrating their competitive edge. A 0-0 draw at home to Turkey showed their defensive resilience, while a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game highlighted their capacity to grind out results.
As Italy aims for a strong start against Albania in the opening Group B match, Spalletti and his squad will settle for nothing less than three points from this fixture. Italy's ambitions are clear—they intend to set a positive tone early in the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
In contrast, Albania has secured qualification for only the second time in their history, a commendable achievement. Their journey to Euro 2024 features notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, establishing them as a resilient team despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B. Albania’s resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked as they prepare for their opening clash against Italy, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain.
Albania's recent friendly matches have been promising; a dominating 3-0 win over Liechtenstein and a convincing 3-1 victory against Azerbaijan showcase their balanced mix of experience and youthful talent. As an unpredictable yet formidable opponent, Albania brings an element of surprise to the tournament.
Italy vs. Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup for the match features several key players: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni; Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, Federico Dimarco; Lorenzo Pellegrini; Gianluca Scamacca, and 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, and Taulant Seferi.
Team News
Italy’s Euro 2024 squad comprises:
- 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 Euro 2024 squad 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 boasts a four-match winning streak against Albania, making them the 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.
Prediction and Betting Tips
Considering Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. Starting their campaign on a high note is crucial for Italy, and a victory in their opening match would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. Our prediction is that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.
Italy enters Euro 2024 with significant momentum and tactical ingenuity under Luciano Spalletti. Conversely, Albania’s remarkable journey and indefatigable spirit add an intriguing dynamic to the group. However, given Italy’s form, they are poised to take the upper hand in their encounter with Albania.