Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters the Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. Their recent performances demonstrate their potential to challenge top teams in the tournament. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has shown renewed determination and grit in their approach.
Under the leadership of Luciano Spalletti, Italy's revamped strategy has introduced new vigor and tactical flexibility to the team. Spalletti is credited as the mastermind behind Italy's resurgence. Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing victories against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies. They also 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. The team aims for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match, with nothing less than three points being satisfactory for Spalletti and his squad.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania has also made an impressive journey to Euro 2024, securing qualification for only the second time in their history. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. Although perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Albania faces a daunting task in their opening match against Italy, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. However, their recent friendly matches demonstrate their potential to perform well. They dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. Albania boasts a balanced mix of experienced players and youthful talent, making them 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 (Last Five Games)
Italy holds a four-match winning streak against Albania and is the favorite for the upcoming clash. A victory 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
Italy is expected to secure a win against Albania, given their current form and tactical superiority. 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.
Analyzing the teams' strengths and recent performances, we predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline. The momentum from their unbeaten streak, coupled with Spalletti's strategic prowess, positions Italy as the stronger side against an unpredictable yet resilient Albanian team.
In conclusion, while Italy enters Euro 2024 with notable form and squad depth, Albania's journey has been remarkable and should not be underestimated. Fans can look forward to an exciting clash as both teams kick off their Group B campaigns.