Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. Their recent performances suggest a strong potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. While it is notable that Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, they have since 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. Under his guidance, Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, including wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March. Additionally, Italy secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game and held Turkey to a 0-0 draw at home.
The Azzurri aim for a strong 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, setting a positive tone for their Euro 2024 campaign.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania has qualified for Euro 2024 for only the second time in their history, a tremendous achievement for a nation often perceived as underdogs. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic.
Although Albania is considered the biggest underdog in Group B, their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked. Facing Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain, Albania knows the uphill battle they face. Yet, their recent performances against Liechtenstein (3-0 win) and Azerbaijan (3-1 win) in friendlies showcase a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent.
Albania's unpredictability makes them a formidable opponent, and they will be eager to prove their worth on the European stage.
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.
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.
Head-to-Head Record
Italy boasts a four-match winning streak against Albania, making them the favorites for the upcoming clash. Extending their winning run would put Italy in an advantageous position in Group B.
Prediction and Betting Tips
Italy is expected to secure a win against Albania, given their impressive form and tactical superiority. Luciano Spalletti's men understand 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.