Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge top teams in the tournament. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, the Italian squad has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach. This change is largely attributed to Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy.
Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, making them a formidable opponent once again. Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies. Additionally, they 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.
As Italy aims 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.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania secured qualification for only the second time in their history, a testament to their resilience and determination. Their 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.
Facing Italy in their opening match, Albania is set to confront challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain subsequently. They have dominated in recent friendlies, achieving a 3-0 win over Liechtenstein and overcoming Azerbaijan with a 3-1 scoreline. 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, Federico Chiesa.
Meanwhile, Albania is expected to field: 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
In their last five encounters, Italy has maintained a four-match winning streak against Albania, solidifying their standing as the favorite in the upcoming clash. A victory in this match 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 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 will aim to set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament with a victory. We predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.