Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams. Although Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, they have added a layer of determination and grit to their approach. Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team.
In recent friendlies, Italy went unbeaten, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March. They also drew 0-0 at home against Turkey and edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game. With Spalletti at the helm, Italy aims for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match. Nothing less than three points will satisfy Spalletti and his squad.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania has secured qualification for only the second time in their history. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, demonstrating their resilience and tenacity. Though perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's determination cannot be overlooked. They 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. Boasting 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, and Federico Chiesa.
Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha; Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, Mario Mitaj; Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani; Nedim Bajrami; Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi.
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 in the upcoming clash. A victory would extend Italy's winning run and 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 is likely to emerge triumphant. A victory in their opening match would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. We predict that Italy will win with a 2-0 scoreline.
"Italy enters the Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak," noted a team analyst. "Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team."
"Although Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, their current momentum shows great promise," stated a football pundit. "On the other hand, Albania’s journey to Euro 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable, and their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked."
The upcoming match promises to be an exciting clash, with Italy expected to secure a win against Albania. For Italy, starting their European campaign with a victory is essential, and it could set the tone for the rest of the tournament.