Italy Preview & Form
As Italy gears up for Euro 2024, they bring an impressive six-match unbeaten streak to the tournament. Italy's recent performances showcase their potential to challenge the top teams, and they have added a layer of determination and grit to their approach. This transformation can largely be credited to Luciano Spalletti, the mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy.
Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, which has proven effective in friendly matches. Italy went unbeaten in their last six friendlies and secured wins against Venezuela and Ecuador in March. They also drew 0-0 at home to Turkey and edged out Bosnia-Herzegovina with a narrow 1-0 victory in their final warm-up game for the European Championship.
However, Italy cannot overlook that they failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, which means they'll be eager to make a strong statement in this tournament. The squad aims for a powerful start against Albania in their opening Group B match. Spalletti and his team will settle for nothing less than three points from this fixture.
Albania Preview & Form
On the other hand, Albania's journey to Euro 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable. Securing qualification for only the second time in their history, Albania's path included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania’s resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked.
Albania's recent form in friendlies also demonstrates their potential to surprise. They dominated Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcame Azerbaijan 3-1. With a balanced mix of experience and youthful talent, Albania emerges as an unpredictable yet formidable opponent. Their opening match against Italy will be a significant test before they face even more challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain.
Starting Lineups
Both teams come into this match with well-prepared squads. Italy's probable lineup features Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal with Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, and Alessandro Bastoni in defense. Andrea Cambiaso and Federico Dimarco are expected to serve as wing-backs, with Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, and Lorenzo Pellegrini forming the midfield. Upfront, they will likely deploy Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa.
Albania's probable lineup includes Etrit Berisha as the goalkeeper, with Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, and Mario Mitaj forming the defensive unit. Their midfield is expected to feature Kristjan Asllani and Ylber Ramadani, with Nedim Bajrami playing a more advanced role. Armando Broja, Yasir Asani, and Taulant Seferi are likely to lead the attack.
Team News
Italy's Euro 2024 squad features goalkeepers Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, and Guglielmo Vicario. The defensive lineup includes players such as Alessandro Bastoni, Raoul Bellanova, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Riccardo Calafiori, Matteo Darmian, Federico Dimarco, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Gianluca Mancini, and Federico Gatti.
The midfield is bolstered by Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. For the attack, Italy boasts Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania's squad for Euro 2024 comprises goalkeepers Etrit Berisha, Elhan Kastrati, and Thomas Strakosha. The defense is fortified by Arlind Ajeti, Naser Aliji, Ivan Balliu, Berat Djimsiti, Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Enea Mihaj, Mario Mitaj, and Marash Kumbulla.
The midfield options include Amir Abrashi, Kristjan Asllani, Nedim Bajrami, Medon Berisha, Klaus Gjasula, Qazim Laci, Ernest Muci, and Ylber Ramadani. The forwards are represented by Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Mirlind Daku, Arber Hoxha, Rey Manaj, and Taulant Seferi.
Head-to-Head Record
When it comes to the head-to-head record, Italy enjoys a four-match winning streak against Albania, establishing themselves as the favorite for the upcoming clash. A victory in this fixture would extend Italy's winning run and position them advantageously in Group B.
Prediction & Betting Tips
Given Italy's impressive form and tactical superiority under Spalletti, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. Starting their campaign on a high note is crucial for Italy, 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.
In conclusion, Italy enters Euro 2024 with high expectations and an unbeaten streak, thanks to the rejuvenated strategies implemented by Luciano Spalletti. In contrast, Albania's resilience and historic qualification set the stage for an intriguing opening match, where Italy is poised to start their campaign with a strong performance.