Khvicha Kvaratskhelia found himself with space near the halfway line and noticed Spain’s goalkeeper Unai Simón was out of position. So, he decided to try a shot.
Although the Napoli winger’s attempt narrowly missed the post this time, it was a nearly spectacular moment that showcased Georgia’s fearless approach at Euro 2024.
As the tournament’s lowest-ranked team, Georgia faced a 4-1 defeat against Spain in the round of 16 on Sunday. However, they fought hard after taking an early lead. Coach Willy Sagnol predicted any disappointment from the loss would fade as the players realized their achievements.
“I’m confident that in a few days we will understand what we’ve accomplished, and happiness will return quickly,” Sagnol said.
Before the tournament began, Sagnol simply wanted his team to gain valuable experience in their debut at a major competition as an independent nation. Results were not the primary focus, especially with political instability back home threatening to overshadow their campaign.
Then came Georgia’s stunning upset against Portugal, winning 2-0 and advancing to the knockout stages. The players were promised a $10.7 million bonus from a prominent figure in Georgian politics, with an additional bonus offered for beating Spain.
“Believe,” read a huge banner in the Georgian section of the stadium, echoing a sentiment similar to that of fictional coach Ted Lasso’s locker room. Georgia believed, and they certainly left their mark on Euro 2024.
In their first match, a 3-1 loss to Turkey, Georgia scored a goal from an impressive passing sequence. Their 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic was almost a victory, with a missed shot in the dying moments of the game.
The surprise victory over Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal was fueled by daring dribbling in midfield and crucial saves from goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who threw himself at the ball when needed most.
