Italy Plans 'Meaner' Strategy Against Spain Following Close Win Over Albania
Italy must adopt a more aggressive approach when they face Spain in Thursday's Group B clash, following an unconvincing win over Albania, according to Luciano Spalletti. The Azzurri were taken aback by the fastest goal in European Championship history on Saturday, as Nedim Bajrami scored within 23 seconds. However, goals from Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella secured a 2-1 victory.
Despite enjoying 68.3% possession, creating five significant chances to Albania's two, and recording 34 touches in the penalty area compared to their opponents' seven, Italy had to endure a late scare. Gianluigi Donnarumma's crucial save against Rey Manaj's attempted lob ensured the three points for Italy.
After witnessing Group B rivals Spain thrash Croatia 3-0 earlier on Saturday, Spalletti acknowledged that Italy needs to improve. "There are a number of things we still have to improve because we thought we were better than we were in too many situations," Spalletti told reporters. "We need to be meaner."
Spalletti emphasized the need for Italy to move the ball more quickly and exploit opportunities against Spain's aggressive pressing style. "We thought we were brilliant at just keeping possession. We need to move the ball a bit more quickly," he added.
Italy has now won their opening game in each of their last three appearances at the Euros (2016, 2020, and 2024), having only done so twice in their first eight attempts (five draws, one loss). They have also remained unbeaten through 10 games at the tournament for just the second time (seven wins, three draws), previously achieving this between 1968 and 1988 (four wins, six draws), lifting the trophy in 1968.
| Statistic | Italy | Albania |
|---|---|---|
| Possession (%) | 68.3 | 31.7 |
| Big Chances Created | 5 | 2 |
| Touches in Penalty Area | 34 | 7 |
The upcoming match against Spain will be crucial for Italy as they aim to build on their opening victory and address the areas highlighted by Spalletti. The team's ability to adapt and execute a more aggressive strategy will be key to their success in this highly competitive group.
Italy vs Albania: Final Third Passes pic.twitter.com/pVPPThPB4y
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