Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, demonstrating their potential to challenge Europe's top teams. This resurgence comes after their disappointment of missing out on the last two World Cups, which has injected a layer of determination and grit into their approach. Under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy, the team has shown new vigor and tactical flexibility.
In their recent friendly matches, Italy went unbeaten, securing wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March friendlies, drawing 0-0 at home to Turkey, and narrowly edging out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a 1-0 victory in their final European Championship warm-up game. These results reflect a team that is finely tuned and ready for the challenge ahead.
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, as a victory would not only extend their winning run but also put them in an advantageous position in the group.
Albania Preview & Form
On the other side, Albania has secured qualification for only the second time in their history. Their journey to Euro 2024 has been marked by notable victories against formidable opponents like Poland and the Czech Republic. Perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania’s resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
In their preparation for the tournament, Albania dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win in friendlies and overcame Azerbaijan with a 3-1 victory. Boasting a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania is an unpredictable yet formidable opponent. They face a daunting schedule with matches against Italy, Croatia, and Spain, but their journey so far shows that they shouldn't be underestimated.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups
For their opening clash, Italy’s probable lineup includes Gianluigi Donnarumma; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni; Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, Federico Dimarco; Lorenzo Pellegrini; Gianluca Scamacca, and Federico Chiesa.
Meanwhile, Albania’s probable lineup features Etrit Berisha; Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, Mario Mitaj; Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani; Nedim Bajrami; Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi.
Team News
Italy’s Euro 2024 squad boasts a solid mix of experience and talent. Goalkeepers include Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario. The defenders' lineup features Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, and others. Midfielders include Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Davide Frattesi, and Lorenzo Pellegrini, while the forward line-up features Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, and Gianluca Scamacca.
In comparison, Albania’s squad for Euro 2024 includes goalkeepers Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. The defenders' roster includes Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, and others. Midfielders feature Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, and others, while the forwards include Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, and Taulant Seferi.
H2H Record & Prediction
Historically, Italy has a strong head-to-head record against Albania, with a four-match winning streak. Given Italy's impressive form and tactical superiority, they are the favorites for the upcoming clash. A victory would not only extend Italy’s winning streak but also set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.
Albania, while resilient, faces a tough challenge ahead. However, their unpredictable style and unyielding determination mean they will not go down easily. Italy understands the importance of starting their campaign on a high note, and with Spalletti at the helm, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. Our prediction is that Italy will emerge triumphant with a 2-0 scoreline.
As Euro 2024 unfolds, both teams will aim to make their mark, and this opening match promises to be an exciting encounter. Will Italy's tactical prowess and unbeaten form win the day, or will Albania’s grit and surprising resilience cause an upset?