Italy Secure Hard-Fought Win Over Albania in Euro 2024 Kickoff

Italy, the defending champions, fought back to earn a hard-fought victory after Albania scored the fastest goal in European Championship history. Nedim Bajrami made headlines by netting a stunning strike into the top right corner just 23 seconds into the match. He capitalized on Federico Dimarco’s error during a throw-in. However, Albania’s moment of joy in Dortmund was fleeting. The underdogs adopted a defensive stance but couldn’t contain the Italian offense. In the 11th minute, Alessandro Bastoni headed in Lorenzo Pellegrini’s inswinging delivery from a cleverly executed short corner to equalize.

Five minutes later, Nicolo Barella fired a powerful shot from 20 yards out to give Italy the lead. Italy’s dominance grew, finishing the first half with 72.2% possession and 13 shots compared to Albania’s four. Although Italy continued to control the ball in the second half, they struggled to create clear chances and failed to extend their lead. Lacking offensive prowess, Albania couldn’t mount a comeback, allowing Italy to secure their first Euro 2024 victory. Despite their early lead, Albania’s defensive strategy backfired creating spaces for Italy to exploit rather than attacking the congested box.

With Arsenal’s Jorginho and Juventus’ Federico Chiesa orchestrating play, Italy navigated around Albania’s defense, carving out numerous opportunities. Albania’s goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha was pivotal in preventing a larger deficit, making crucial saves against Davide Frattesi and Gianluca Scamacca. Albania’s best chance for an equalizer came late but Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Rey Manaj’s effort. Italy, once they found their rhythm, were dominant, pressing energetically and overturning possession to create further chances. Chiesa stood out with his impressive dribbling despite Albania’s packed defense.

Although Italy’s attacking momentum waned, their victory was never in doubt. Under new manager Luciano Spalletti, Italy showcased a solid performance despite significant changes from the squad that won the last Euros under Roberto Mancini. With Croatia and Spain ahead, Italy’s win, despite the early setback was a strong start to their title defense. Albania’s second-ever goal in a major tournament was memorable with Bajrami’s strike setting a new record by surpassing Dmitri Kirichenko’s 67-second goal for Russia against Greece in Euro 2004. Albania’s fans will cherish Bajrami’s historic goal and the tournament’s special moments for years to come.

Despite being in a challenging group and facing slim chances of advancing to the knockout stage, these memories will remain significant.