Watch Georgia vs Portugal full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 19:00 (GMT) on 26th June 2024
The referee for this match is S. Schärer
Game played at Arena AufSchalke
This is a match in Europe – UEFA Euro, Group F, Season 2024
Georgia Stuns Portugal with Historic Win to Secure Knockout Spot in Euro 2024
Georgia sensationally advanced to the knockout stages of UEFA Euro 2024 with a remarkable 2-0 victory over Group F winners Portugal. Goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze propelled the tournament’s lowest-ranked nation to their first major tournament win as an independent nation.
Early Breakthrough for Georgia
Georgia’s dream start came within two minutes of kick-off. António Silva’s misplaced pass was intercepted by Georges Mikautadze, who threaded the ball to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The Georgian winger finished superbly into the far corner, giving his team an early 1-0 lead. This early goal set the tone, as Georgia, unbeaten in their last 18 matches after scoring first, looked to build on their advantage.
Portugal’s Response
Portugal, under Roberto Martínez, fielded a heavily rotated side but gradually grew into the contest. Cristiano Ronaldo and João Palhinha both saw powerful efforts thwarted by Giorgi Mamardashvili. João Félix also came close with a long-range strike that narrowly missed the target. Despite these efforts, clear-cut chances were scarce as Georgia’s defense held firm.
Second Half Dominance
The second half began with Georgia again on the front foot. Diogo Dalot’s curled effort for Portugal was tipped around the post by Mamardashvili. Georgia capitalized on their pressure when a VAR review deemed António Silva to have tripped Luka Lochoshvili in the box. Georges Mikautadze stepped up to take the penalty and calmly slotted it into the bottom corner, securing his third goal of the tournament and giving Georgia a crucial 2-0 lead.
Georgia’s Historic Win
Portugal attempted a late comeback, but it never looked likely. Mamardashvili saved from Nelson Semedo, and Georgia comfortably saw out the final minutes to secure a famous victory. This result sets up a fascinating last-16 tie against Spain for Georgia, while Portugal will look to bounce back against Slovenia on Monday.
Key Moments
- Early Goal by Kvaratskhelia: Georgia took an early lead with a superb finish from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
- Mikautadze’s Penalty: Georges Mikautadze converted a penalty in the second half to double Georgia’s lead.
- Mamardashvili’s Saves: Giorgi Mamardashvili made crucial saves to keep a clean sheet and secure the win for Georgia.
Conclusion
Georgia’s stunning 2-0 victory over Portugal marks a historic moment for the nation, advancing to the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time. This incredible performance sets them up for an exciting clash with Spain, while Portugal will need to regroup quickly as they prepare to face Slovenia.