Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 riding a wave of optimism, buoyed by an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. Their recent performances have showcased their potential to challenge the top-tier teams in Europe, a significant improvement given their failure to qualify for the last two World Cups. Under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti, the Azzurri have added a layer of determination and grit to their approach.
Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. This transformation has been evident in their recent matches, where Italy went unbeaten in six friendlies, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March. They also managed a 0-0 draw at home against Turkey and edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game.
Heading into their opening Group B match against Albania, Italy aims for a strong start. Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania's journey to Euro 2024 has been remarkable. Securing qualification for only the second time in their history, Albania's 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 and will then brace for challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. Recently, Albania showcased their potential by dominating Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win in friendlies and overcoming Azerbaijan 3-1. With a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania is an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Italy vs. Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy’s probable lineup includes:
- 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 includes:
- 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 has dominated their recent encounters with Albania, boasting a four-match winning streak. As the favorite for the upcoming clash, Italy aims to extend this winning run. A victory would place Italy in an advantageous position in Group B, providing a positive start to their Euro 2024 campaign.
Italy vs. Albania: Prediction and Betting Tips
Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. Spalletti's understanding of the importance of starting their campaign on a high note will likely drive the team's performance. 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's current form, combined with Spalletti’s tactical acumen, makes them a formidable opponent. While Albania's resilience should not be underestimated, the Azzurri are well-positioned to kick off their Euro 2024 journey with a win.