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Italy not favored in Euro 2024 despite 2020 win could be a dangerous underdog in Germany.
As defending champions Italy prepare to begin their Euro 2024 journey at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund, all eyes are on their opening match against Albania.
Italy, aiming for a fifth consecutive knockout stage appearance in major European tournaments, will look to replicate their past success of starting with a win against perceived underdogs Albania, a team they have dominated in recent encounters.
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10:05 - 15.06.2024
5 incredible records from Germany's 5-1 demolition of Scotland at EURO 2024
Germany's 5-1 thrashing of Scotland at the EURO 2024 opener rewrote the record books.
Under the helm of Coach Luciano Spalletti, who took over after Roberto Mancini's unexpected departure, Italy faces challenges with key defensive players out due to injury.
Despite this, the Italians have shown resilience, securing consecutive clean sheets in recent friendly matches against Turkey and Bosnia.
They boast a formidable defensive record in Euro group stages, having conceded just once in their last six matches (W5, L1), emphasizing their defensive prowess.
Albania, making only their second appearance in a major European tournament after a commendable third-place finish in 2016, arrives with renewed confidence.
They topped their qualifying group ahead of strong competitors like the Czech Republic and Poland (W4, D3, L1), and have bolstered their form with convincing friendly victories, scoring three goals in each match.
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06:00 - 15.06.2024
Croatia seek revenge against Spain after Nations League final defeat
Group B is considered this year's group of death as it contains Croatia, Spain, Italy and Albania.
Their defensive solidity is highlighted by conceding just four goals in their entire qualifying campaign and maintaining a resilient record in recent matches.
The upcoming fixture promises to be a tactical battle, with Albania's compact defense aiming to counter Italy's attacking prowess. However, history favors Italy, having won all four previous encounters against Albania since 2014, including a 3-1 victory in their last meeting in 2022.
Players to watch include Gianluca Scamacca, a prolific scorer for Atalanta with 19 goals this season, and Nedim Bajrami, who has been instrumental for Albania with contributions in their recent victories.
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![[WATCH]: Lionel Messi's penalty miss just days after rival Cristiano Ronaldo](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/05072024/b1a5cb9b-809d-4cc7-8a4a-df102fab2733.jpg?operations=fit(600:))
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