Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams. However, it’s worth noting that Italy missed out on qualifying for the last two World Cups, adding a layer of determination and grit to their current approach.
Luciano Spalletti has been the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy. Under his guidance, the team has added new vigor and tactical flexibility, making them a formidable opponent. Italy's recent form has been promising, going unbeaten in their last six friendly matches. They secured wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, drew 0-0 at home to Turkey, and edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game.
Italy aims 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, setting a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania secured qualification for only the second time in their history, an achievement that included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's resilience and tenacity should not be overlooked.
Albania faces a formidable challenge, opening their campaign against Italy. Following this, they will encounter Croatia and Spain. In recent friendlies, Albania showcased their potential with dominant performances, including a 3-0 win against Liechtenstein and a 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan. This balanced mix of experience and youthful talent makes Albania an unpredictable and 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.
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
Italy has a strong historical record against Albania, boasting a four-match winning streak. As the favorite for the upcoming clash, Italy will look to extend this winning run. A victory in this match would not only boost their confidence 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 will aim to emerge triumphant. Albania, on the other hand, will look to capitalize on their resilience and tenacity to spring a surprise.
All signs point to an exciting encounter, but we predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline, setting a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.