Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, underscoring their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Although the Azzurri failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, they have added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, thanks in large part to the strategic genius of Luciano Spalletti. Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, making Italy a formidable opponent for any team they face.
Recently, Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies. They also drew 0-0 at home against Turkey and edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in the final European Championship warm-up game. With such a strong run, Italy aims for a powerful start against Albania in their opening Group B match. Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania, on the other hand, 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. Often 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, demonstrating their potential. Boasting a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania remains 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 has 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
Given their impressive form and tactical superiority, Italy is expected to secure a win against Albania. Understanding the importance of starting their campaign on a high note, 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.