Italy Preview & Form
Italy enters Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak, showcasing their potential to challenge the top teams in the tournament. Despite failing to qualify for the last two World Cups, the Italian squad has added a layer of determination and grit to their approach, making them a formidable opponent.
The mastermind behind Italy's revamped strategy is Luciano Spalletti. Spalletti has injected new vigor and tactical flexibility into the team, which has been evident in their recent performances. Italy's six-match unbeaten run includes notable wins in friendly matches against Venezuela and Ecuador in March. Additionally, they managed a 0-0 draw at home against Turkey and secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in their final European Championship warm-up game.
As Italy aims for a strong start, their opening Group B match against Albania is crucial. Spalletti and his squad will be satisfied with nothing less than three points from this fixture, setting a positive tone for the rest of the tournament.
Albania Preview & Form
Albania, securing qualification for only the second time in their history, has made a remarkable journey to Euro 2024. Their path to the tournament included notable victories against Poland and the Czech Republic, highlighting their resilience and tenacity. Despite being perceived as the biggest underdog in Group B, Albania's balanced mix of experience and youthful talent makes them an unpredictable yet formidable opponent.
Albania's preparation for the tournament saw them dominate Liechtenstein with a 3-0 win and overcome Azerbaijan with a 3-1 victory in friendly matches. These results indicate their readiness to compete at a high level. Albania will face Italy in their opening match, followed by challenging encounters against Croatia and Spain.
Starting Lineups
Italy's probable lineup includes Gianluigi Donnarumma as the goalkeeper; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Buongiorno, Alessandro Bastoni in defense; Andrea Cambiaso, Bryan Cristante, Jorginho, Federico Dimarco in midfield; Lorenzo Pellegrini as the playmaker; and Gianluca Scamacca, Federico Chiesa leading the attack.
Albania's probable lineup features Etrit Berisha in goal; Elseid Hysaj, Ardian Ismajli, Berat Djimsiti, Mario Mitaj in defense; Kristjan Asllani, Ylber Ramadani in midfield; Nedim Bajrami as the playmaker; and Yasir Asani, Armando Broja, Taulant Seferi in attack.
Team News
Italy's squad for Euro 2024 showcases a blend of experience and young talent. The goalkeepers include 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 are Nicolo Barella, Bryan Cristante, Michael Folorunsho, Davide Frattesi, Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Nicolo Fagioli. The forwards are Mattia Zaccagni, Federico Chiesa, Stephan El Shaarawy, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui, and Gianluca Scamacca.
Albania's squad includes 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 midfielders are 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.
H2H Record (Last Five Games)
Italy has a strong head-to-head record against Albania, boasting a four-match winning streak. This record makes Italy the favorite for the upcoming clash, and a victory would extend their winning run and put them in an advantageous position in Group B.
Prediction and Betting Tips
Italy understands the importance of starting their campaign on a high note. Given their impressive form and tactical superiority, they are expected to secure a win against Albania. 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.
Italy enters the Euro 2024 with an impressive six-match unbeaten streak. Under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti, the team has shown new vigor and tactical flexibility, posing a significant challenge to their opponents. Despite having failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, Italy's current form suggests they have overcome past shortcomings. On the other hand, Albania’s journey to Euro 2024 has been nothing short of remarkable. Their resilience and tenacity cannot be overlooked, but given Italy’s impressive form, they are expected to secure a win against Albania with a predicted 2-0 victory.