Georgia secured a historic spot in the UEFA Euro 2024 knockout stages with a stunning 2-0 win over Group F winners Portugal, thanks to goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze.
Chasing their first major tournament win as an independent nation, Georgia started strongly. Within two minutes, Mikautadze capitalized on a mispass from Antonio Silva and set up Kvaratskhelia, who finished expertly into the far corner.
Unbeaten in their last 18 matches after scoring first, Georgia looked to build on their early lead, while Portugal gradually grew into the game. Cristiano Ronaldo and João Palhinha had shots saved by Giorgi Mamardashvili, and João Félix narrowly missed from long range.
Georgia nearly doubled their lead when Giorgi Gvelesiani headed Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s free-kick just wide. The second half started with Georgia again on the front foot and creating chances.
Diogo Dalot’s curled shot was saved, but Georgia extended their lead when VAR awarded a penalty after Antonio Silva fouled Luka Lochoshvili. Georges Mikautadze converted the penalty for his third goal of the tournament, giving Georgia crucial breathing room with 30 minutes left.
Portugal pushed for a comeback, but Giorgi Mamardashvili saved Nelson Semedo’s effort, allowing Georgia to secure a last-16 match against Spain. Portugal, meanwhile, will look to recover against Slovenia on Monday.
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