Euro Cup 2024: Italy begins title defense against Albania in Group B

Italy kicks off the defense of its European Championship title against Albania on Saturday in Dortmund, marking their first Group B match.

The group also features strong contenders Spain and Croatia. After failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, Italy returns to a major tournament, having missed two consecutive World Cups despite their Euro 2020 victory.

Albania, meanwhile, is making its second Euros appearance, with their first in 2016 ending at the group stage.

Italy's match against Albania is set for 9 p.m. local time (1900 GMT) in Dortmund. The venue holds special memories for Italy, as they first played at Borussia Dortmund’s stadium in a memorable 2006 World Cup semifinal, where they beat Germany 2-0 in extra time.

Midfielder Davide Frattesi is expected to be available after overcoming a minor groin injury. Teammates Nicolò Barella and Nicolò Fagioli have been training separately due to muscle issues. Gianluca Scamacca is likely to start as a striker, having finished the season strongly with Atalanta. Coach Luciano Spalletti may opt for a three-man defense with wing-backs.

Coach Sylvinho, who was recently granted Albanian citizenship, has no reported injuries. Armando Broja is anticipated to lead the attack despite limited playtime at Fulham.

Italy is aiming for their third European Championship title, having won in 1968 and 2020. They were runners-up in 2000 and 2012. Italy has a perfect record against Albania, winning all four encounters since 2014.

Albania's last visit to Dortmund in 1981 resulted in an 8-0 defeat to West Germany. Ten members of Albania's squad currently play in Italy’s top leagues.

Italy's midfielder Bryan Cristante noted the current squad’s youth and strength under coach Spalletti compared to the Euro 2020 winners led by Roberto Mancini. Albania’s Kristjan Asllani, who plays alongside Frattesi at Inter Milan, jokingly remarked on the tension between them ahead of the match.