Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. This recent run of form demonstrates their potential to challenge the top teams. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, making them a formidable force on the international stage.
Luciano Spalletti is the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, injecting new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. Under his guidance, Italy went 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.
As Italy aims for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match, Spalletti and his squad will settle for nothing less than three points from this fixture. Their impressive form and tactical prowess position them as favorites for the upcoming clash.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania secured qualification for Euro 2024, only their second time in history. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Albania will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. In recent friendlies, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. With a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania presents an unpredictable yet formidable challenge.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal; defenders Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni; Andrea Cambiaso and Federico Dimarco as wing-backs; midfielders Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Lorenzo Pellegrini; and forwards Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa.
Albania’s likely starting XI features Etrit Berisha in goal; defenders Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj; midfielders Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani, and Nedim Bajrami; and forwards Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and 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 four-match winning streak against Albania, highlighting their dominance in their head-to-head encounters. As favorites for the upcoming clash, Italy aims to extend their winning run, which would 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.
In conclusion, Italy enters Euro 2024 with renewed confidence and a formidable unbeaten streak, while Albania's journey to the tournament has been nothing short of remarkable. Despite being underdogs, Albania’s resilience and tenacity could make for an exciting and competitive match. However, Italy's tactical prowess and recent form give them the edge heading into this crucial Group B encounter.