Sports Mole takes an in-depth look at how Albania could line up for Saturday’s Euro 2024 clash with Italy.
Making only a second major tournament appearance, Albania kick off their Euro 2024 campaign on Saturday evening, when they meet Italy in Dortmund.
The Group B outsiders are expected to have the most support, with over 50,000 Albanian fans set to descend on Westfalenstadion in hope of seeing a shock success for their national team – far more than UEFA’s official ticket allocation.
Among Sylvinho‘s 26-man squad are no fewer than 10 men that play their club football in either the Italian first or second tier, including captain Berat Djimsiti, who recently won the Europa League with Atalanta BC.
Influential midfielder Kristjan Asllani played a minor role in Inter Milan’s Serie A title triumph last term, while defensive duo Elseid Hysaj and Marash Kumbulla have both earned their living on the Italian peninsula for several years now.
Empoli goalkeeper Etrit Berisha is locked in a battle with Brentford back-up Thomas Strakosha to start between the posts, behind a probable four man defence.
Despite failing to impress on loan at Fulham following a serious injury, Armando Broja is set to start up front; fellow striker Sokol Cikalleshi did not miss a game in qualifying but announced his international retirement after being omitted from the Euros squad.
Broja should be supported by Sassuolo playmaker Nedim Bajrami and South Korea-based winger Jasir Asani, the latter of whom had never been called up before the qualifiers, during which he scored three goals.
Albania possible starting lineup: E. Berisha; Hysaj, Ismajli, Djimsiti, Mitaj; Asllani, Ramadani; Asani, Bajrami, Seferi; Broja
> Click here to see how Italy could line up for this contest
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