UEFA EURO 2024 Group Stage
16 June, 2024 - Indian Date
RheinEnergieStadion
MATCH TIMES
India
12:30 AM
UAE
11:00 PM
Saudi Arabia
09:45 PM
MATCH LIVE INFO
Italy possible starting lineup: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Bastoni, Dimarco; Cristante, Jorginho; Frattesi, Pellegrini, Chiesa; Scamacca
Hungary possible starting lineup: E. Berisha; Hysaj, Ismajli, Djimsiti, Mitaj; Asllani, Ramadani; Asani, Bajrami, Seferi; Broja
Match Preview
Italy begins their defense of the European title against Albania on Saturday evening as both nations start their Euro 2024 campaigns. While Italy aims to win consecutive Euros—a feat only Spain has accomplished—their preparation has been marred by injuries and recent upheavals. Despite this, Italy remains formidable, having not conceded in their last 317 minutes of play, and holding an impressive European Championship record with only six goals conceded in their last 12 matches.
Albania, on the other hand, enters the tournament with modest goals, simply hoping to advance from the group stage in what is their second appearance at a major tournament. They showed resilience in the qualifiers, going unbeaten after an initial loss to Poland and finishing top of their group.
Italy’s squad faces significant absences, including Francesco Acerbi and Giorgio Scalvini due to injuries, and Sandro Tonali due to suspension. Despite these setbacks, the team is buoyed by the presence of key players like goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, midfielders Davide Frattesi, Nicolo Fagioli, and Nicolo Barella, and forwards Gianluca Scamacca and Mateo Retegui.
Albania, coached by Sylvinho, is led by Atalanta BC defender Berat Djimsiti and features a mix of players from Serie A and other leagues. Their qualification success was built on strong performances, but translating that to the main stage will be a challenge, especially in a group that includes powerhouses Spain and Croatia.
Italy has won all four previous meetings with Albania, making them favorites to secure a victory in this opening match. This game is crucial for Italy to gain early momentum in a tough group, while Albania will look to defy expectations and possibly pull off an upset. Despite the pressure and their injury-hit squad, Italy’s experience and defensive solidity give them the edge going into this encounter.