Italy vs Albania Prediction & Betting Tips (15 June)

Italy are putting their title back on the line after their victory at Wembley three years ago against the host country, England, after a penalty shootout. Since then, it is always important to remember that the Italians missed a second World Cup in a row and that they must recover and return to the highest level under the leadership of Spalletti, appointed coach last summer. During qualifying, however, the Squadra Azzurra was outclassed by the English, finishing in 2nd place with six points behind. It even came close for it not to finish in 3rd position but ultimately, its better goal difference allowed it to beat Ukraine, thanks in particular to its last draw obtained against Sbirna during a decisive 0-0 duel. In March, the Nazionale had two short victories against Venezuela 2-1 and Ecuador 0-2. It then showed some limits during the preparation by being held in check by Turkey 0-0 before achieving a narrow success against Bosnia Herzegovina last weekend 1-0.

This is only the 2nd time in its history that Albania, never qualified for the slightest World Cup, will participate in a Euro. This selection made its mark during the qualifiers by taking 1st place in its group ahead of the Czech Republic, Poland, Moldova and the Faroe Islands with a record of 4 wins, 3 draws and 1 defeat in 8 matches. Building on their momentum, the Rouge et Noir, on the other hand, thought they would do much better in March but they were called to order by losing to Chile 0-3 and Sweden 1-0. Opposed to 2 affordable opponents at the beginning of June in order to prepare for their entry into the Euro, Sylvinho's players gained confidence by beating Liechtenstein 3-0 and Azerbaijan 3-1 to arrive in good shape at the start of 'Euro.

The reigning European champion will defend his crown without winger Zaniolo (Aston Villa) who himself announced in May that he would not be at the event. This absence comes in addition to those of rising star Udogie (Tottenham), winger Berardi (Sassuolo) and important defenders Acerbi (Inter) and Scalvini (Atalanta), all injured. In addition, experienced midfielders Verratti (Al-Arabi) and Locatelli (Juventus) were not retained by Spalletti, nor were attackers Immobile (Lazio) and Politano (Naples). Finally, present in an extended list, goalkeeper Provedel (Lazio), midfielder Ricci (Torino) and winger Orsolini (Bologna) were ultimately not selected. On the other hand, the Squadra Azzurra will be able to rely on the prolific and winner of the Europa League with Atalanta, Scamacca, who should be established at the forefront. Author of a relatively decent season (8 goals, 3 assists with Juventus), striker Chiesa is there, he who largely contributed to the Italian success 3 years ago. The real satisfaction of this selection is focused on the defensive aspect, which the new generation defensive duo Mancini - Bastoni should provide wonderfully, notably supported by Donnaruma (PSG) expected at the turn following his mixed performances with PSG in the big matches. The only Italian goal of the preparation was the work of Interist Frattesi (15 sels, 5 goals). Among the uncertainties, let us note the fear around Barella who has just signed a new lease at Inter (2029) but who did not take part in the two friendly preparation matches.

Fagioli (Juventus) trained away from the group (also uncertain). For Albania, striker Uzuni (Granada) is injured and absent along with the more experienced Cikalleshi who has decided to retiring internationally last March. Furthermore, defender Veseli (Karagümrük) was not called up, just like midfielder Bare (Espanyol). Albania's squad is much more modest even if many players present play year-round in Serie A. Among them, we can cite goalkeeper Berisha (Empoli), defenders Hysaj (Lazio), Ismajli (Empoli) , Kumbulla (Sassuolo) and Djimsiti (Atalanta) and midfielders Berisha (Lecce), Bajrami (Sassuolo), Ramadani (Lecce) and especially Asllani (Inter). Goalkeeper Strakosha (Brentford), defender Balliu (Rayo Vallecano), midfielder Laçi (Sparta Prague, ex Ajaccio), promising Muçi (Besiktas) and striker Broja (Fulham) are also used to the very high level. Last week, striker Manaj confirmed his status as top scorer in this selection by scoring his 8th goal in the Albanian jersey against Azerbaijan.