QUICK FACTS – (Group Stage – Group B)
- Italy beat Albania 2-1 in Euro 2024 group stage
- Nedim Bajrami with fastest goal in Euros history
- Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella secured win for Azzurri
Match Review: Italy 2-1 Albania – ‘defending champions make great start’
Defending champions Italy fought back for a hard-earned opening victory after Albania scored the fastest goal in Euros history.
Nedim Bajrami made history after just 23 seconds, thumping a strike into the top right corner following Federico Dimarco’s throw-in blunder. However, Albania’s moment of joy in Dortmund was short-lived.
The underdogs sat back but couldn’t stifle the Italians. Alessandro Bastoni headed home Lorenzo Pellegrini’s inswinging delivery from a clever short corner to equalise in the 11th minute. Just five minutes later, Nicolo Barella smashed in a 20-yard strike to put Italy ahead.
Italy’s dominance grew as they entered halftime with 72.2% possession and 13 shots to Albania’s four.
Despite continuing to control the ball, Italy struggled to create clear chances in the second half and couldn’t extend their lead.
Albania offered little threat, allowing Italy to secure their first Euro 2024 victory without significant concern.
Taking an early lead did little to change Albania’s fortunes. They were expected to defend deeply and did so, but Luciano Spalletti’s Italy knew how to respond.
While Albania tried to crowd out Italy, they inadvertently left pockets of space on the edge of the area, which the Azzurri exploited instead of attacking the congested box.
With Arsenal midfielder Jorginho and Juventus winger Federico Chiesa orchestrating play, Italy navigated around Albania and created openings.
Italy could have scored more, but Albania goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha made crucial saves, including pushing a Davide Frattesi dink against the post and denying Gianluca Scamacca from close range.
Albania improved defensively in the second half, preventing further goals but failing to find an equaliser. Their best chance was a late effort by Rey Manaj, saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Italy’s defence of their Euro title began with a hiccup but soon showcased their dominance. Spalletti’s men pressed energetically and created numerous chances to extend their lead.
Winger Chiesa was particularly impressive, easily dribbling forward despite the number of Albania defenders around the box. Although striker Scamacca didn’t make a significant impact, Italy’s intelligent passing and tactical discipline kept them in control.
While their attacking momentum waned, the victory was never in doubt. Italy, under new management and with a refreshed squad, now faces challenging group games against Croatia and Spain. Saturday’s win, despite the early scare, was a strong start to their campaign.
Albania’s historic goal
Albania had only scored once in a major tournament before Saturday, but Bajrami’s record-breaking strike was memorable.
His goal broke a 20-year-old record, surpassing the 67 seconds it took Dmitri Kirichenko to score for Russia against Greece in Euro 2004.
Sylvinho’s team faces a tough group, making progress to the knockout stage unlikely. However, this tournament will hold a special place in Albanian fans’ hearts, and Bajrami’s record will be celebrated for years to come.
