Defending champions tonight Italy begin their title defence at Euro 2024 against Albania.
It feels like an age now when the Azzurri broke English hearts in a penalty shootout at Wembley, with the Italians having missed a second consecutive World Cup since.
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While it has been a turbulent time for the Italian national team, they now boast one of the more accomplished managers in the international game.
Former Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti was installed as Roberto Mancini’s replacement in August and has changed the style somewhat, albeit he may not have had enough time to fully implement his ideas.
Alongside Spain and Albania, this is no doubt the dreaded ‘group of death’. Albania, meanwhile, have been transformed under the stewardship of ex-Arsenal defender Sylvinho. They topped their qualification group to reach the European Championship for only the second time.
Here’s everything you need to know about the game.
Date, kick-off time and venue
Italy vs Albania is scheduled for an 8pm BST kick-off time today, Saturday, June 15, 2024.
The BVB Stadion Dortmund (Signal Iduna Park) in Dortmund will host.
Where to watch Italy vs Albania
TV channel: The game will be broadcast on BBC One. Coverage starts at 7.20pm.
Live stream: The BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport website will both offer a free live stream service.
LIVE coverage: Follow all the action with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog.
Italy vs Albania team news
Sandro Tonali will miss the tournament after the Newcastle midfielder was banned for ten months in October following betting breaches.
Tottenham’s Destiny Udogie misses the tournament due to injury, joining the likes of Nicolo Zaniolo, Francesco Acerbi and Giorgio Scalvini on the treatment table.
Nicolo Fagioli is ruled out for just this game and Nicolo Barella is a doubt.
Inter Milan’s Kristjan Asllani is perhaps Albania’s standout player, though Chelsea’s Armando Broja – who could leave this summer – is also one to watch out for.
Italy vs Albania prediction
It might be doing Albania a disservice after such a strong qualification campaign but it would be a shock not to see the defending champions open with a victory.
Italy to win, 2-1.
Head to head (h2h) history and results
Italy wins: 4
Draws: 0
Albania wins: 0
Italy vs Albania latest odds
Italy to win: 1/3
Draw: 16/5
Albania to win: 17/2
