Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, underscoring their potential to challenge the tournament's top teams. This resurgence is notable, especially given that Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups. Determined to rewrite their recent history, Italy has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team. His influence is evident in their recent performances, where Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendly matches. These games included wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March, a goalless draw at home to Turkey, and a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game.
As they head into their opening Group B match against Albania, Italy aims for a strong start. 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, making their path to Euro 2024 a remarkable journey. Their qualifying campaign included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, highlighting their resilience and tenacity.
Albania is perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, but their resilience cannot be overlooked. They will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain. Despite the tough competition, Albania's mix of experience and youthful talent makes them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Their recent performances in friendlies are promising. Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1, showing they are ready to take on more formidable opponents in Euro 2024.
Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup for the match includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni, and Andrea Cambiaso forming the defensive unit. The midfield consists of Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Federico Dimarco, while Lorenzo Pellegrini will support the forwards Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa.
Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper, with Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj in defense. The midfield comprises Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani, while Nedim Bajrami, Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi make up the forward line.
Team News
For Italy, the Euro 2024 squad includes goalkeepers Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario. The defenders are Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti. The midfielders include Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. The forward line consists of Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Meanwhile, Albania's squad features goalkeepers Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. The defenders are Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla. The midfield includes Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani. The forwards are Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi.
Head-to-Head Record
In their last five games, Italy has a dominant head-to-head record against Albania, winning four consecutive matches. This statistic places Italy as the favorite for the upcoming clash, and a victory would not only extend their winning run but also put them in an advantageous position in Group B.
Prediction and Betting Tips
Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority, they are 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.