Italy vs Albania Prediction: Expert Analysis and Match Preview
Italy vs Albania Prediction: Will the Azzurri Prevail?
Italy, the defending EURO 2024, kick off their title defense on Saturday night against Albania at the BVB-Borussia-Stadion in Dortmund. As Group B favorites, the Azzurri cannot afford a slip-up, especially with challenging matches against Croatia and Spain on the horizon.
Head-to-Head Performance
Italy has historically dominated Albania in their previous meetings. The Azzurri have won three and drawn one of the last four encounters. In contrast, Albania has conceded just four goals in eight European Championship qualifiers, showcasing a strong defensive performance.
Italy’s Recent Form
Since winning the 2020 European Championship, Italy has struggled with consistency. They failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and barely secured second place in their European Championship qualifying group after a controversial goalless draw against Ukraine.
Albania’s Historic High
Albania is enjoying a remarkable period in their football history. They finished first in their European Championship qualifying group, ahead of notable teams like the Czech Republic, Poland, Moldova, and the Faroe Islands. Their impressive defense, conceding only four goals in eight matches, will be a key factor against Italy.
Italy vs Albania: Line-Ups and Team News
Italy (3-4-2-1):
- Goalkeeper: Donnarumma
- Defenders: Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Bastoni
- Midfielders: Cambiaso, Cristante, Jorginho, Dimarco
- Forwards: Frattesi, Chiesa, Scamacca
Albania (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Straskosha
- Defenders: Hysaj, Ajeti, Djimsiti, Mitaj
- Midfielders: Asllani, Ramadani, Bajrami
- Forwards: Asani, Broja, Seferi
Luciano Spalletti, Italy’s coach, has made some surprising decisions, leaving out Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli and Lazio legend Ciro Immobile. Despite testing a back four in recent friendlies, Spalletti is expected to revert to a back three for this match. Albania will miss several experienced players, including Odise Roshi, Frederic Veseli, Sokol Cikalleshi, and Armando Sadiku.
Italy’s Tactical Approach
Luciano Spalletti has revitalized Italy since taking over from Roberto Mancini. Under his guidance, Italy has won three and drawn one of their four friendlies this year. Their recent 1-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in Empoli is a testament to their improving form.
Albania’s Preparation
Albania chose relatively easier opponents for their last two friendly matches, defeating Liechtenstein and Azerbaijan. However, these victories might not provide much confidence against the reigning champions. Despite this, Albania’s defensive record in the qualifiers suggests they could pose a challenge to Italy.
Italy vs Albania Prediction:
Given the defensive strengths of both teams, this match could be a closely contested affair. Italy’s recent struggles in offensive play and Albania’s solid defense indicate a low-scoring game. Betting on under 2.5 goals at odds of 1.80 seems like a promising option.
