Italy is gearing up to defend their European crown as they face Albania in their Euro 2024 opener. The Azzurri, who triumphed over England on penalties in the 2021 final at Wembley, are under pressure to make a strong start against one of the tournament's lowest-ranked teams in Dortmund.
Italy's Challenge
Italy's head coach, Luciano Spalletti, emphasized the importance of courage and passion for his team. "For any child that goes out every evening and sweats, grazes their knees - then we are their heroes, what they dream of," said Spalletti. "It is up to us to live up to that. Giants and heroes don't go out with fear - they go out with passion and belief."
Albania's Ambition
Ranked 66th in FIFA's world rankings, Albania is making its second appearance at a major tournament. Despite their underdog status, Italy's captain Gianluigi Donnarumma cautioned against underestimating the Albanian team, which includes several players from Serie A. "This match is the biggest banana skin in our group. We have to be 100% switched on," said the PSG goalkeeper.
Albania is managed by former Arsenal and Manchester City defender Sylvinho, who stated, "We respect our opponents but fear no one. The players are ready to give their all on the European stage and make Albania proud."
Group B Dynamics
Italy and Albania are part of Group B, along with Spain and Croatia, promising a series of thrilling matches.
Team News
Italy
Attacking Midfielder: Davide Frattesi, who scored three times in qualifying, should be available after returning to training from a minor groin injury.
Midfielder: Nicolo Barella has been training separately as he recovers from muscle issues.
Albania
Injuries: Coach Sylvinho has reported no injuries within his squad.
How to Watch Italy vs Albania
Live Broadcast: The match will be live on BBC One, with coverage starting at 19:20 BST. The commentary team includes Spain's 2010 World Cup winner Cesc Fabregas, alongside Gary Lineker.
Radio Commentary: BBC Radio 5 Live will provide full match commentary from 20:00 BST.
Online: You can follow live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app.
Match Stats
Italy is making its eighth consecutive appearance at the European Championship, having missed only Euro 1992 since their debut.
This is Italy's third match in Dortmund, with previous games including a 2-0 win after extra time against Germany in the 2006 World Cup semi-finals and a 1-1 friendly draw in 2011.
Italy won the 2006 World Cup, held in Germany.
Sylvinho is the second Brazilian manager to coach at the Euros, following Luiz Felipe Scolari's tenure with Portugal.
Albania used 26 different players during their qualifying campaign, the joint-fewest of all teams qualified for Euro 2024, alongside Slovenia.
Conclusion
Italy faces a crucial challenge as they kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Albania. With high expectations and the pressure to perform, the Azzurri must harness their passion and belief to secure a victory. Meanwhile, Albania aims to make a significant impact and prove their worth on the European stage. Don't miss this exciting match!
Italy vs Albania Prediction – June 16, 2024
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Italy is gearing up to defend their European crown as they face Albania in their Euro 2024 opener. The Azzurri, who triumphed over England on penalties in the 2021 final at Wembley, are under pressure to make a strong start against one of the tournament's lowest-ranked teams in Dortmund.
Italy's Challenge
Italy's head coach, Luciano Spalletti, emphasized the importance of courage and passion for his team. "For any child that goes out every evening and sweats, grazes their knees - then we are their heroes, what they dream of," said Spalletti. "It is up to us to live up to that. Giants and heroes don't go out with fear - they go out with passion and belief."
Albania's Ambition
Ranked 66th in FIFA's world rankings, Albania is making its second appearance at a major tournament. Despite their underdog status, Italy's captain Gianluigi Donnarumma cautioned against underestimating the Albanian team, which includes several players from Serie A. "This match is the biggest banana skin in our group. We have to be 100% switched on," said the PSG goalkeeper.
Albania is managed by former Arsenal and Manchester City defender Sylvinho, who stated, "We respect our opponents but fear no one. The players are ready to give their all on the European stage and make Albania proud."
Group B Dynamics
Italy and Albania are part of Group B, along with Spain and Croatia, promising a series of thrilling matches.
Team News
Italy
Attacking Midfielder: Davide Frattesi, who scored three times in qualifying, should be available after returning to training from a minor groin injury.
Midfielder: Nicolo Barella has been training separately as he recovers from muscle issues.
Albania
Injuries: Coach Sylvinho has reported no injuries within his squad.
How to Watch Italy vs Albania
Live Broadcast: The match will be live on BBC One, with coverage starting at 19:20 BST. The commentary team includes Spain's 2010 World Cup winner Cesc Fabregas, alongside Gary Lineker.
Radio Commentary: BBC Radio 5 Live will provide full match commentary from 20:00 BST.
Online: You can follow live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app.
Match Stats
Italy is making its eighth consecutive appearance at the European Championship, having missed only Euro 1992 since their debut.
This is Italy's third match in Dortmund, with previous games including a 2-0 win after extra time against Germany in the 2006 World Cup semi-finals and a 1-1 friendly draw in 2011.
Italy won the 2006 World Cup, held in Germany.
Sylvinho is the second Brazilian manager to coach at the Euros, following Luiz Felipe Scolari's tenure with Portugal.
Albania used 26 different players during their qualifying campaign, the joint-fewest of all teams qualified for Euro 2024, alongside Slovenia.
Conclusion
Italy faces a crucial challenge as they kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Albania. With high expectations and the pressure to perform, the Azzurri must harness their passion and belief to secure a victory. Meanwhile, Albania aims to make a significant impact and prove their worth on the European stage. Don't miss this exciting match!