Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, displaying their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Despite their recent success, it's important to note that Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, a shortcoming that has added a layer of determination and grit to their current approach. Under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti, the Azzurri have revamped their strategy, injecting new vigor and tactical flexibility into the squad.
Spalletti has masterminded Italy's transformation, leading them to go unbeaten in their last six friendly matches. This run includes notable victories against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, a 0-0 draw at home to Turkey, and a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game. As they aim 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
On the other hand, Albania secured qualification for only the second time in their history, marking a significant achievement for the team. Their path to the tournament included impressive victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, showcasing their resilience and tenacity. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's mix of experience and youthful talent makes them an unpredictable and formidable opponent.
Albania's recent form in friendlies has been commendable, with a dominant 3-0 win over Liechtenstein and a 3-1 triumph against Azerbaijan. Facing Italy in their opening match, Albania will look to leverage their balanced squad to create potential upsets. Subsequent challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain will further test their mettle in the group stage.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
Both teams are likely to field strong squads for this crucial opening match. Italy's probable lineup includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, supported by defenders Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Alessandro Bastoni. The midfield is set to feature Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Lorenzo Pellegrini, while the attack will be spearheaded by Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa.
Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper, with a defensive lineup of Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj. In midfield, Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani are expected to play pivotal roles, while the attack will likely be driven by Nedim Bajrami, Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania: Team News
Italy's Euro 2024 squad includes goalkeepers Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario. The defensive options are bolstered by Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti. The midfield features stars like Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. The forwards' lineup is strengthened by Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania's squad for Euro 2024 includes goalkeepers Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. Their defensive lineup features Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla. The midfielders include Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani. The forwards' lineup is completed by Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania H2H Record (Last Five Games)
Italy holds a strong head-to-head record against Albania, with a four-match winning streak in their last five encounters. As they prepare for this crucial clash, Italy is the favorite to secure a victory that would extend their winning run and 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 aims to set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament. We predict that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline, solidifying their position as strong contenders in Euro 2024.