The stakes are high as Italy prepares to face Croatia in their final Group B match of Euro 2024. A draw will secure Italy’s place in the knockout stages, but to achieve that, Luciano Spalletti needs to get his Italy Starting 11 Euro 2024 spot on. After a defeat to Spain, the pressure is on the Azzurri to deliver a strong performance and solidify their progression in the tournament. This match is not just about qualification; it’s about momentum and confidence as they move deeper into Euro 2024.
Italy’s Confirmed Starting 11 for Euro 2024 Clash Against Croatia
Spalletti has opted for significant changes to his Italy starting 11 Euro 2024 compared to previous matches. Moving to a 3-5-2 formation, the lineup is designed to offer both defensive solidity and attacking flexibility. Here’s the confirmed Italy starting 11 Euro 2024 against Croatia:
- Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
- Defenders: Matteo Darmian, Riccardo Calafiori, Alessandro Bastoni
- Midfielders: Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Jorginho, Nicolo Barella, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Federico Dimarco
- Forwards: Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui
Gianluigi Donnarumma Italy Euro 2024
This Italy starting 11 Euro 2024 shows a clear tactical shift from Spalletti. The introduction of Mateo Retegui and Giacomo Raspadori upfront is a notable change, with Gianluca Scamacca and Federico Chiesa making way. This new attacking partnership aims to bring fresh energy and potentially a different dynamic to Italy’s forward line.
Key Changes and Tactical Implications in Italy Starting 11 Euro 2024
Several key changes in the Italy starting 11 Euro 2024 highlight Spalletti’s tactical thinking for this crucial match:
- Retegui and Raspadori Lead the Attack: Starting Retegui ahead of Scamacca offers a different focal point in attack, potentially providing more physicality and aerial presence. Raspadori’s inclusion adds creativity and link-up play in the final third. This pairing is a departure from the previous games and suggests a more dynamic attacking approach.
- Shift to 3-5-2 Formation: Moving to a 3-5-2 formation is a significant tactical adjustment. This system aims to bolster the defense while providing width through wing-backs Di Lorenzo and Dimarco. The midfield trio of Jorginho, Barella, and Pellegrini remains crucial for controlling the tempo and providing service to the forwards.
- Darmian in Defense: Matteo Darmian’s inclusion as a third central defender adds experience and versatility to the backline. His ability to play in multiple positions makes him a valuable asset in a tactical reshuffle like this.
- Chiesa and Frattesi Drop to the Bench: The exclusion of Federico Chiesa and Davide Frattesi from the Italy starting 11 Euro 2024 is perhaps the most surprising. Chiesa, in particular, is known for his dribbling and attacking threat. However, Spalletti might be looking for a different blend of qualities in this specific match, possibly prioritizing tactical discipline and defensive stability initially.
Croatia Starting 11: Veterans Look to Upset Italy
Croatia, needing a win to realistically progress, will field a strong and experienced side. Their Croatia starting 11 features familiar faces and seasoned campaigners:
- Goalkeeper: Dominik Livakovic
- Defenders: Josip Stanisic, Josip Sutalo, Marin Pongracic, Josko Gvardiol
- Midfielders: Luka Modric, Marcelo Brozovic, Mateo Kovacic
- Forwards: Luka Sucic, Andrej Kramaric, Mario Pasalic
Gianluigi Donnarumma Italy Euro 2024
Led by veterans like Luka Modric, Croatia’s midfield is their engine room. The Croatia starting 11 blends experience with some younger talent, aiming to exploit any weaknesses in the Italian setup.
Euro 2024 Group B Scenario and Match Importance
Spain has already secured the top spot in Group B, leaving Italy and Croatia to battle for the remaining qualification places. For Italy, a draw is sufficient to advance to the Round of 16. However, a win would be crucial for securing a potentially more favorable draw in the next round.
Croatia, on the other hand, realistically needs a win to have a chance of progressing, possibly as one of the best third-placed teams. After a heavy defeat to Spain and a draw against Albania, this match is a must-win for them.
The Italy starting 11 Euro 2024 reflects Spalletti’s understanding of the game’s dynamics. Balancing the need for a result with tactical flexibility, Italy will aim to control the game and exploit any openings against a determined Croatian side. Football fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating this crucial Euro 2024 Group B finale to see if Spalletti’s Italy starting 11 Euro 2024 can deliver under pressure.
