The Euro 2024 Group Stage match between Italy and Albania at the BVB Stadion Dortmund on 16th June,2024 provided a thrilling spectacle, concluding with a 2-1 victory for Italy. Albania shocked the Italian squad with a goal in the very first minute, thanks to Nedim Bajrami, who capitalised on a defensive lapse. However, Italy quickly responded, showcasing their resilience and skill. Alessandro Bastoni equalised in the 11th minute with a powerful header, and just five minutes later, Nicolò Barella’s precise finish put Italy ahead. The swift turnaround demonstrated Italy’s ability to regain composure and control the game despite the early setback.
In the second half, Italy’s disciplined defence and strategic play ensured they maintained their lead. Albania pushed forward in search of an equaliser, creating several chances, but Italy’s defence, led by captain Leonardo Bonucci, remained resolute. The Italian goalkeeper also made crucial saves, preserving their advantage. The victory marked a strong start for Italy in Group B, highlighting their experience and quality, while Albania’s spirited performance showed promise for their upcoming matches. This match underscored the excitement and unpredictability of the Euro 2024 tournament, promising more thrilling encounters in the group stage.
Italy National Football Team vs Albania National Football Team Squad
Starting XI:
| Italy | Albania |
|---|---|
| 1. Donnarumma (GK) | 1. Strakosha (GK) |
| 2. Di Lorenzo | 3. Mitaj |
| 3. Dimarco | 4. Hysaj |
| 5. Calafiori | 5. Arlind Ajeti |
| 7. Frattesi | 6. Djimsiti (C) |
| 8. Jorginho | 9. Asani |
| 9. Scamacca | 10. Bajrami |
| 10. Pellegrini | 11. Broja |
| 14. Chiesa | 15. Seferi |
| 18. Barella | 20. Ramadani |
| 23. Bastoni | 21. Asllani |
Substitute:
| Substitutes | Italy | Albania |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vicario (GK) | E. Berisha (GK) |
| 2 | Meret (GK) | Kastrati (GK) |
| 3 | Buongiorno | Balliu |
| 4 | Gatti | Manaj |
| 5 | Raspadori | Gjasula |
| 6 | Darmian | Mihaj |
| 7 | Bellanova | Laçi |
| 8 | Cristante | M. Berisha |
| 9 | Mancini | Muçi |
| 10 | Retegui | Ismajli |
| 11 | Zaccagni | Daku |
| 12 | Fagioli | Abrashi |
| 13 | El Shaarawy | Kumbulla |
| 14 | Cambiaso | Aliji |
| 15 | Folorunsho | Hoxha |
Italy National Football Team vs Albania National Football Team Timeline
Match Timeline: Italy vs Albania (16 June, Euro 2024)
- 1′ – Goal by Bajrami (Albania)
- 11′ – Goal by Bastoni (Italy)
- 16′ – Goal by Barella (Italy)
- 21′ – Yellow card for Pellegrini (Italy)
- 45’+3 – Half-time
- 51′ – Yellow card for Broja (Albania)
- 51′ – Yellow card for Calafiori (Italy)
- 68′ – Hoxha on for Asani (Albania)
- 68′ – Laçi on for Seferi (Albania)
- 74′ – Yellow card for Hoxha (Albania)
- 77′ – Cristante on for Pellegrini (Italy)
- 77′ – Cambiaso on for Chiesa (Italy)
- 77′ – Manaj on for Broja (Albania)
- 83′ – Retegui on for Scamacca (Italy)
- 83′ – Darmian on for Dimarco (Italy)
- 87′ – Muçi on for Bajrami (Albania)
- 90’+2 – Folorunsho on for Barella (Italy)
- 90’+4 – Full-time
Final Score: Italy 2 – 1 Albania
