Italy Preview & Form
As Italy heads into Euro 2024, they carry with them the momentum of an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. This recent run of form suggests that Italy has the potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy seems to have added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, primarily under the stewardship of Luciano Spalletti.
Spalletti: The Mastermind Behind Italy's Revamp
Luciano Spalletti has been instrumental in Italy’s revived strategy. Known for his tactical acumen, Spalletti has injected new vigor and flexibility into the squad. Italy’s unbeaten run in their last six friendly matches includes notable victories against Venezuela and Ecuador in March, underscoring the team’s readiness for the European Championship. Their goalless draw against Turkey and the narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina further highlight their solid defensive credentials.
Aiming for a Strong Start
Italy aims for a robust start against Albania in their opening Group B match. With the competitive spirit Spalletti has fostered, the team will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture. The expected lineup for Italy includes Gianluigi Donnarumma; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni; Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, Federico Dimarco; Lorenzo Pellegrini; Gianluca Scamacca, and Federico Chiesa.
Albania Preview & Form
For Albania, qualifying for Euro 2024 marks only the second time in their history that they have reached this stage. Their journey to the tournament has been marked by notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, showcasing the team’s resilience and tenacity. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdogs in Group B, Albania’s resolve cannot be underestimated.
An Unpredictable Yet Formidable Opponent
Albania's squad boasts a balanced mix of experienced players and youthful talent, making them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent. Their recent friendly matches include a 3-0 victory over Liechtenstein and a 3-1 triumph against Azerbaijan, further indicating their capability to compete at a high level. The probable lineup for Albania against Italy includes Etrit Berisha; Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, Mario Mitaj; Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani; Nedim Bajrami; Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, and Taulant Seferi.
Italy vs Albania: Starting Lineups and Team News
Italy’s squad is replete with talent across all positions. With Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario as goalkeepers, the team's defensive backbone includes Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti. Their midfield strength is evident with Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. Forwards like Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca add the required firepower.
On the other side, Albania’s roster includes goalkeepers Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. Defenders like Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla form a solid backline. Their midfield features Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani. Forwards Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi will be pivotal in their attacking play.
Italy vs Albania: H2H Record and Match Prediction
Italy holds a dominant head-to-head record against Albania, with a four-match winning streak. Given Italy’s impressive form and tactical superiority, they are widely expected to secure a win in their Euro 2024 opener against Albania. A victory would not only extend Italy's winning run but also put them in an advantageous position in Group B.
Prediction and Betting Tips
The consensus is that Italy will emerge triumphant in this encounter. Recognizing the importance of starting their campaign on a high note, Italy will likely aim for a decisive victory. Our prediction sees Italy securing a 2-0 win, setting a positive tone for the rest of their tournament.
Italy enters the Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, guided by the strategic vision and vigor brought in by Luciano Spalletti. Albania’s journey to Euro 2024, meanwhile, has been remarkable, characterized by notable victories and an unpredictable playing style. Nonetheless, given Italy’s form and tactical prowess, they are expected to secure a win against Albania.