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 important to note that the team failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, a fact which has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach.
Luciano Spalletti has been the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy. He has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, making them a formidable opponent. During their unbeaten streak, Italy 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 the final European Championship warm-up game.
As Italy gears up for their opening Group B match against Albania, Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania has secured qualification for only the second time in their history, and their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. Although Albania is perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Albania's journey to Euro 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable. They dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win in friendlies and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. With a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania is an unpredictable yet formidable opponent, ready to face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup features Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Alessandro Bastoni in defense. The midfield consists of Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco, with Lorenzo Pellegrini supporting forwards Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa.
Albania's probable lineup includes Etrit Berisha in goal, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj in defense. Their midfield will likely feature Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani, with Nedim Bajrami in an advanced role. Up front, Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi will look to make an impact.
Team News
Italy's Euro 2024 squad is a balanced mix of veterans and emerging talents. The goalkeepers include Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario. In defense, the team features Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti.
The midfield is composed of Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. Up front, Italy boasts Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania's Euro 2024 squad also features a robust lineup. The goalkeepers are Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. Their defenders include Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla.
The midfield lineup features Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani. The forwards are Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi.
H2H Record and Prediction
Italy enjoys a favorable head-to-head record against Albania, with a four-match winning streak. Italy is the favorite for the upcoming clash, and a victory would extend their winning run and place them in an advantageous position in Group B.
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 summary, Italy enters Euro 2024 with momentum and confidence, thanks to Spalletti's tactical ingenuity and the team's recent unbeaten run. Meanwhile, Albania's remarkable journey and resilience ensure they are not an opponent to be taken lightly. The opening Group B match promises to be an exciting encounter, with Italy aiming for a strong start to their campaign.