Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, signaling their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. This streak includes recent performances that highlight their renewed vigor and tactical flexibility, a transformation brought about by their mastermind coach, Luciano Spalletti.
Despite their recent successes, Italy's lack of qualification for the last two World Cups remains a stark reminder of past shortcomings. However, Spalletti has injected a new sense of determination and grit into the team, which was evident in their unbeaten run in the last six friendly matches.
Among the notable performances, Italy secured victories against Venezuela and Ecuador in the March friendlies, demonstrating their ability to overcome varying styles of play. A goalless draw at home against Turkey showcased their defensive solidity, while edging out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game indicated the team’s capability in tight situations.
Italy aims for a strong start in Euro 2024, setting their sights on a convincing win against Albania in their opening Group B match. Nothing less than three points will satisfy Spalletti and his squad, given their ambitious aspirations for the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
On the other hand, Albania heads into Euro 2024 having secured qualification for only the second time in their history. Their journey to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, which reflect their resilience and tenacity.
Perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's resilience cannot be overlooked. They have a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, making them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Albania's recent form includes dominant friendly match performances, such as a 3-0 win against Liechtenstein and a 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan, underscoring their capability to perform well against lower-ranked teams. However, they face a challenging opening match against Italy, followed by encounters with Croatia and Spain.
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.
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 has a strong head-to-head record against Albania, boasting a four-match winning streak. This makes Italy the favorite for the upcoming clash, with a victory potentially extending their winning run and putting them in an advantageous position in Group B.
Prediction and Betting Tips
Given Italy’s recent form and tactical superiority, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. A victory in their opening match would set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament and boost their confidence. We predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.
In summary, Italy enters Euro 2024 with strong momentum and a clear objective, aiming to assert their dominance from the outset. Albania, meanwhile, will look to upset the odds and demonstrate their resilience on the European stage. The opening match between Italy and Albania promises to be an intriguing encounter, with both teams eager to make a statement.