Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 riding a wave of optimism, thanks to an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. Their recent performances have underlined their potential to challenge the top teams and possibly go all the way in the tournament. This run of form is especially noteworthy, considering Italy's failure to qualify for the last two World Cups. However, their determination and grit have added a new layer to their approach.
The mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy is Luciano Spalletti. Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, making them a force to be reckoned with. Under his guidance, Italy remained unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, showcasing their mettle against diverse opponents. They secured wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in the 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 the tournament kicks off, 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
For Albania, Euro 2024 marks only the second time in their history that they've qualified for the tournament. Their path to qualification included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, making them the biggest underdog in Group B. Despite this, Albania's resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Their journey begins with a challenging encounter against Italy. Following this, they will face Croatia and Spain, making their group one of the toughest in the tournament. However, Albania's recent form in friendlies has been encouraging. They dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1, showcasing a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent in the squad.
Albania enters the tournament as an unpredictable yet formidable opponent, ready to prove their mettle on the big stage.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Here are the probable lineups for both teams:
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 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)
In their head-to-head record, Italy has a four-match winning streak against Albania. Italy is the favorite for the upcoming clash, and a victory would extend their winning run. This would also place Italy in an advantageous position in Group B.
Italy vs Albania Prediction and Betting Tips
Given Italy's impressive form and tactical superiority, they are widely 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.
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. With Luciano Spalletti at the helm, Italy has added new vigor and tactical flexibility to their gameplay. On the other hand, Albania's journey to Euro 2024 has been remarkable, and their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked. However, given Italy's form and tactical advantage, they are expected to secure a win against Albania.