The match at Signal Iduna Park was a rollercoaster of emotions and high-quality football.
Albania’s early goal and passionate support created a formidable challenge for Italy, but goals from Bastoni and Barella secured a 2-1 victory for European champions Italy, setting a strong tone for their title defence at Euro 2024.
Here are the seven most significant moments of the encounter as compiled by Soccernet.football’s Imhons Erons
1. Albanian Fans Take Over Dortmund
The atmosphere at Signal Iduna Park was electric even before kickoff. With 50,000 Albanian fans filling the stands, the support for Albania far outnumbered the 10,000 Italian fans.
The Albanian supporters brought a carnival-like atmosphere, humorously snapping spaghetti in front of Italian fans, a playful jab that was met with good-natured laughter. Their chants and songs echoed throughout Dortmund, creating an unforgettable scene of red and black fervour.
2. Kristjan Asllani’s Homecoming
For Kristjan Asllani, this match was deeply personal. Born in Albania and raised in Italy, the 22-year-old Inter Milan midfielder faced his adopted country in a high-stakes encounter.
Asllani, who has enjoyed a stellar domestic season with Inter, was named in Albania’s starting lineup.
Despite his best efforts to orchestrate play from midfield, Asllani couldn’t prevent Italy’s comeback, but he can be proud of his performance and dual heritage.
3. Sylvinho’s Tactical Masterclass
Albania’s Brazilian coach, Sylvinho, has brought a new level of preparation and tactical acumen to the team.
Formerly of Arsenal and Barcelona, Sylvinho, along with his assistants Pablo Zabaleta and Doriva, meticulously scouted and selected the squad.
Under his guidance, Albania reached Euro 2024 for only the second time in history, a remarkable achievement. Sylvinho’s influence was evident in Albania’s spirited play, though ultimately, it wasn’t enough to hold off Italy’s comeback.
4. Spalletti’s No-Nonsense Approach
Italy’s head coach, Luciano Spalletti, has instilled a culture of discipline and focus in his squad.
Known for his strict approach, Spalletti banned PlayStations in the team camp to ensure players stayed focused on their Euro 2024 objectives.
His managerial style has earned him early acclaim, positioning him as a potential ‘Manager of the Tournament.’
Spalletti’s decision to reintegrate Gianluca Scamacca, who was previously dropped for playing video games, underlines his no-nonsense approach.
5. Bajrami’s Record-Breaking Goal
The match exploded into life just 23 seconds in when Nedim Bajrami seized on a defensive error by Federico Dimarco.
Bajrami’s fierce shot beat Gianluigi Donnarumma at his near post, setting a new record for the fastest goal in Euros history.
The goal sent the Albanian fans into raptures, and the celebrations could likely be heard back in Tirana. This stunning start was beyond Albania’s wildest dreams, and it rattled the reigning champions.
6. Bastoni’s Equalizer
Italy quickly responded to Albania’s early shock.
In the 11th minute, Alessandro Bastoni found himself unmarked at the far post and headed home the equalizer following a cleverly worked short corner.
The goal brought Italy level and shifted the momentum back to the European champions to the delight of the thousands of Italians in the stand.
7. Barella’s Stunning Strike
The turning point came in the 16th minute when Nicolò Barella scored a sensational goal.
After Albania failed to clear their lines, the ball fell to Barella, who unleashed a first-time 20-yard shot with the outside of his foot into the corner of the net.
This brilliant strike gave Italy the lead for the first time and marked Barella’s 10th goal for the national team, surpassing Francesco Totti’s tally.
