Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has 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 Spalletti, Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies. Additionally, they 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.
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. A strong performance in this initial game is crucial for setting the tone for Italy's campaign in the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania secured qualification for Euro 2024, marking only the second time in their history that they have made it to the tournament. Their path to qualification included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, proving their capability to compete at a high level. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked. They dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win in friendlies and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1, showing their balanced mix of experience and youthful talent.
Albania faces a tough schedule, beginning with a match against Italy, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. This makes a strong start even more crucial for them if they hope to challenge for progression in the tournament.
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, making them the favorites for the upcoming clash. Another victory would not only extend Italy's winning run but also put them in an advantageous position in Group B, setting a positive tone for their Euro 2024 campaign.
Italy vs Albania Prediction and Betting Tips
Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority under Luciano Spalletti, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. Italy understands 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. Our prediction is that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.