Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, underscoring their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. This accomplishment is particularly notable given that Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, a painful period that has seemingly imbued the squad with a renewed sense of determination and grit.
Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. Under his guidance, Italy has gone unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, and drawing 0-0 at home to Turkey. They also managed to edge out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game. With such form, Italy aims for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match, and Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania's qualification for Euro 2024 marks only the second time in their history they have reached this stage, making their journey to the tournament an inspiring one. Their qualification path included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, leaving Albania perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B. However, their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Albania will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. In recent friendly matches, Albania has performed admirably, dominating Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcoming Azerbaijan 3-1. The squad boasts a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, making them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup for their opening match includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni, and Andrea Cambiaso in defense; Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco in midfield; with Lorenzo Pellegrini, Gianluca Scamacca, and Federico Chiesa leading the attack.
On the other hand, Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper; Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj in defense; Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani in midfield; Nedim Bajrami in a more advanced role; with Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi completing the front line.
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy's squad consists of goalkeepers Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario; defenders Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti; midfielders Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli; and forwards Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania’s squad includes goalkeepers Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha; defenders Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla; midfielders Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani; and forwards Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania H2H Record (Last Five Games)
Italy holds a commanding 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. 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.
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge Europe’s elite teams. Luciano Spalletti's influence has been paramount, injecting new vigor and tactical flexibility into the side. Conversely, Albania’s resilience and tenacity, highlighted by their remarkable journey to Euro 2024, cannot be overlooked. However, given Italy’s current form and tactical prowess, they are expected to secure a win in this fixture.