June 26 – Georgia wrote history on their Euro’s debut by defeating Portugal’s second string 2-0 to claim a ticket for the last 16 of Euro 2024.
On an emotional night on the Ruhr, Georgia defied football logic and the balance of power to power past Portugal with a display of self-confidence and efficiency.
Willy Sagnol’s team were keenly aware of the mammoth task that awaited them against their illustrious opponents, but after sticking to their game plan and largely relying on the class of Napoli player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Georgia’s ‘Kvaradonna’ – they were rewarded with a spot in the knockout rounds.
It was the greatest night in Georgia’s football history, so far.
Within two minutes, the Georgians and their golden boy Kvaratskhelia tore up the script. The lowest-ranked team in the tournament was up against the might and myth of Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo, the only outfield player manager Roberto Martinez retained from his side’s 3-0 victory against Turkey.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia tormented Portugal’s defence
Pouncing on a terrible pass from António Silva, the ball came to Kvaratskhelia who lashed a shot across the goalkeeper and into the net with great composure.
Kvaradona’s great strike handed Georgia a dream start. They had barely touched the ball, but found themselves in a commanding position, with enough points on the board to prolong their maiden appearance at the continental finals.
In Gelsenkirchen, the equation had been simple from the start: the Georgians needed a win and Portugal were already assured of top spot. That allowed Martinez to rotate, the way Spain had done against Albania. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa and Ronaldo were retained, but even so, Portugal’s strength-in-depth seemed impressive. Joao Felix and Danilo were among the starters.
Sitting deep with a five-man rearguard, Georgia wanted to protect their precious lead and hurt Portugal on the counter. They were waiting for the moment to regain…
Source link : https://www.insideworldfootball.com/2024/06/26/georgia-stun-portugal-prolong-german-odyssey/
Author : Paul Nicholson
Publish date : 2024-06-26 21:39:10
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