Italy kicks off EURO 2024 title defense against Albania

Italy opens its Euro 2024 campaign against Albania in Dortmund on Sunday.

The match is a rematch of the two teams' meeting in the group stage of the 2016 tournament, which Italy won 2-0.

Italy is the defending champion, having won the 2020 tournament, and will be looking to make a strong start to its title defense. Albania, meanwhile, is making its first appearance at the Euros since 2016.

The match will be played at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund, Germany. Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00 CEST (20:00 GMT).

Italy is the clear favorite heading into the match. The team is ranked No. 6 in the FIFA World Rankings, while Albania is ranked No. 66.

However, Albania has a history of upsetting bigger teams. In the 2016 Euros, Albania beat Romania 1-0 and held France to a 1-1 draw.

Italy will need to be wary of Albania's counterattacking threat. The Albanians have a number of quick and skillful players who can cause problems for Italy's defense.

Italy is expected to start with a strong lineup, including Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini in defense, and Marco Verratti and Nicolo Barella in midfield.

Albania is likely to start with a more defensive lineup, with Marash Kumbulla and Berat Djimsiti in defense, and Amir Abrashi and Etrit Berisha in midfield.

The match is sure to be a close and exciting one. Italy will be looking to make a strong start to its title defense, while Albania will be hoping to upset the odds once again.