Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, highlighting their potential to challenge the top teams. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy has displayed a renewed sense of determination and grit that can push them forward in this tournament. Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the squad, making them a formidable contender.
In their recent matches, Italy remained unbeaten in six friendly encounters, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies. They also 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. Italy aims for a strong start against Albania in their opening Group B match, and Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania's path to Euro 2024 has been remarkable, as they secured qualification for only the second time in their history. Their journey included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, showcasing their resilience and tenacity. Often perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's unpredictable yet formidable nature cannot be overlooked.
Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win in recent friendlies and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1, demonstrating a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent. However, Albania faces challenging encounters ahead, starting with their match against Italy, followed by clashes with Croatia and Spain.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
For their opening match, Italy's probable lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
- Defenders: Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni
- Midfielders: Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, Federico Dimarco
- Forwards: Lorenzo Pellegrini, Gianluca Scamacca, Federico Chiesa
Albania's probable lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Etrit Berisha
- Defenders: Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, Mario Mitaj
- Midfielders: Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani
- Attacker: Nedim Bajrami
- Forwards: Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Taulant Seferi
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy's Euro 2024 squad consists of the following players:
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's Euro 2024 squad includes:
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, which positions them as the favorite for the upcoming clash. Securing a victory would not only extend Italy's winning run but also place 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. The team 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.