Gianluigi Donnarumma makes crucial save to secure victory
Italy defeats Albania 2-1 in Euro 2024 opener
Nicolo Barella orchestrates Italian offense
Italy kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Albania. The match began disastrously for the Azzurri as Nedim Bajrami scored the fastest goal in tournament history just 23 seconds into the game. However, Italy responded brilliantly, with Alessandro Bastoni heading them level after 11 minutes and Nicolo Barella firing them in front five minutes later. The Italian team dominated the rest of the match, but Albania's defence was woeful in the opening minutes, allowing Bajrami to score easily from Dimarco's loose throw.
Barella, a doubt before the tournament due to injury, was a standout player for Italy throughout the game. He dictated play and orchestrated their offense. Bastoni was also impressive at the back and scored Italy's first goal with a thumping header.
Luciano Spalletti's team grew in confidence as the game went on, but it took a brilliant save from Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 90th minute to secure their victory. The Italian goalkeeper celebrated his save by running towards the corner flag and performing a trademark celebration.
Despite Italy's impressive performance, they were given a scare early on when Bajrami capitalized on their poor defending. However, Spalletti's team responded well and showed great resilience to come back from behind and secure all three points.
Italy will next face Croatia in Hamburg on Thursday, while Albania take on Spain in Gelsenkirchen.
Luciano Spalletti provided instructions to his Italy players during the EURO 2024 match against Albania.
Spalletti encouraged Gianluca Scamacca during the game.
Jorginho was told to ‘go to’ by Spalletti.
Accuracy
][Luciano Spalletti provided instructions to his Italy players during the EURO 2024 match against Albania.][/ The New York Times article also mentions that Spalletti provided instructions to his Italy players during the EURO 2024 match against Albania.]
[Alessandro Bastoni scored the first goal for Italy in the 15th minute.][/ The New York Times article also mentions that Alessandro Bastoni scored the first goal for Italy in the 15th minute.]
[Nicolo Barella scored the second goal for Italy in the same match.][/ The New York Times article also mentions that Nicolo Barella scored the second goal for Italy in the same match.]
