Spain secured a thrilling quarter-final spot in Euro 2024 by overcoming a spirited Georgia side, setting up an eagerly anticipated clash with hosts Germany.
In their first major tournament, Georgia initially surprised the spectators at Cologne Stadium by taking an unexpected lead.
Spain’s Robin le Normand inadvertently turned Otar Kakabadze’s curling cross into his own net after 18 minutes, completing a swift counter-attack that silenced the Spanish supporters. Georgia’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia led the exuberant celebrations with his teammates.
The goal injected confidence into the Georgian side, but Spain’s relentless pressure eventually paid off. Manchester City’s Rodri equalized with a precise shot into the bottom corner, beating Georgia’s standout goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Spain’s attacking prowess continued to shine as they created numerous chances. Fabian Ruiz capitalized on a cross from 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, heading it in to give Spain the lead. Despite Georgia’s valiant efforts, including a near-miss from Kvaratskhelia, who almost scored from the halfway line, Spain’s composed possession game took control.
Nico Williams then added to Spain’s tally with a powerful strike into the roof of the net, followed by a precise finish from Dani Olmo, capping off a commanding performance.
Spain’s flawless group stage performance, where they won all three matches without conceding a goal, made them heavy favorites for this knockout tie. Despite an early setback, Luis de la Fuente’s squad demonstrated their resilience and creativity, reinforcing their status as tournament favorites.
The win sets up a high-stakes quarter-final against Germany in Stuttgart on Friday. “This is the path we are in. Germany at home will be very strong, but we have no fear,” said Rodri. “I’m sure they will be worried about us too. We are here to try to win, not just to play well or give a good image.”
Georgia’s journey in Euro 2024, their debut major tournament, was nothing short of a fairytale. Manager Willy Sagnol, a former Bayern Munich and France full-back, urged his team to show no fear, and they delivered with fearless dribbling and counter-attacking flair.
Goalkeeper Mamardashvili’s outstanding performance kept Georgia in the game for over 50 minutes until Ruiz’s header put Spain ahead. Kvaratskhelia, providing stardust in attack, almost pulled off the goal of the tournament.
Georgia’s spirited performance earned respect from their opponents, with their supporters staying behind after the match to applaud their team.
“Sometimes you need to take time to look at what you have done. We can be very happy,” said Sagnol.
“The evolution of the team has been absolutely fantastic. I’m very proud of that. Now it’s the end of our journey, but I’m sure the next one will be very exciting.”
Spain’s well-prepared squad, having had two extra days to rest and making 10 changes in their final group game, showed their strength as Georgia tired in the later stages.
Spain’s dominance and creativity ensured their place in the quarter-finals, while Georgia exits with heads held high after exceeding expectations.