As Euro 2024 unfolds in Germany, Italy is once again in the spotlight, bringing memories of their 2021 triumph to the forefront.
Despite a rocky qualification path and a squad lacking blockbuster names, Italy’s start against Albania in Dortmund tonight poses a prime opportunity for a resurgence.
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A tumultuous journey for the Squadra Azzura
Since their 2021 European Championship victory, Italy’s path has been anything but smooth. Missing out on the 2022 World Cup marked another significant setback, echoing their absence from the 2018 tournament in Russia. This year, Italy doesn’t carry the unbeaten streak that preceded their last Euro triumph; instead, they’ve shown vulnerability in the qualifiers, barely securing a spot at this summer’s main event.
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The Albanian challenge
Italy’s first match in Group B—dubbed the “group of death” alongside Spain, Croatia, and Albania—pits them against an Albanian team deeply connected to Italy, both culturally and through player ties. Many Albanian players compete in Italy’s Serie A and B, giving them intimate knowledge of the Italian playing style. Luciano Spalletti, Italy’s coach, acknowledged the threat, noting that familiar faces like Ramadani and Hysaj make Albania a formidable opponent.
The need for a strong start
The Italian squad’s recent struggles to score, evident in their tepid performances in June’s friendlies, highlight the urgency of starting strong. Captain Gianluigi Donnarumma emphasized the necessity of a win against Albania to avoid early panic. Italy’s strategy likely includes a defensive lineup of four, supported by a dynamic midfield trio, and spearheaded by Gianluca Scamacca, whose recent form offers hope of reigniting Italy’s attacking prowess.
Italy 🇮🇹#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/8dOSzgyToA
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) June 13, 2024
A changed reputation
Recent years have seen Italy’s soccering stature diminish. Once a feared powerhouse, the Azzurri have suffered humbling eliminations by teams like Sweden and North Macedonia. The echoes of these failures serve as a cautionary backdrop to their current campaign, underscoring the imperative of victory in their opener.
A message to the heavyweights
Italy’s performance against Albania isn’t just about securing three points; it’s about sending a signal to the tournament’s favorites. Players like Spain’s Dani Olmo have acknowledged Italy as contenders, largely out of respect for their status as the defending champions. A convincing win could reaffirm Italy’s capability to compete with the likes of England, France, and Portugal.
This article explores Italy’s quest to replicate their 2021 Euro success amidst challenges and skepticism. Despite recent struggles and a less intimidating roster, the Azzurri’s opening match against Albania offers a chance to reignite their championship aspirations and signal their intent to remain among Europe’s elite.
