Georgia secured a historic place in the knockout stages of Euro 2024 after a stunning 2-0 win over Portugal on Wednesday, while Türkiye, Belgium, Romania and Slovakia all advanced to the last 16 as the group stage came to an end.
Appearing at their first European Championship, Georgia had to record their first ever victory at the tournament to reach the last 16 when they played with Portugal in Gelsenkirchen.
Georgia went ahead inside the opening two minutes thanks to a fine finish from their star player, Napoli winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Georges Mikautadze, who set up that goal, made it 2-0 from the penalty spot early in the second half to become the competition’s top scorer on three.
It was a frustrating night for Portugal, who were denied on several occasions by Georgia’s impressive goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Georgia, ranked 74th in the world, will now play much-fancied Spain in the next round on Sunday in Cologne, having progressed as one of the four best third-placed sides.
Competing at the first major tournament in the nation’s history, Georgia has captured the hearts of fans at Euro 2024 for its fearlessness and high-intensity football.
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