In a stunning upset that will resonate through Euro 2024, Georgia secured a remarkable 2-0 victory over Portugal on Wednesday, propelling them into the knockout stage of their debut major tournament. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia struck early, followed by a Georges Mikautadze penalty, sealing a historic win for Georgia.
Despite facing a largely second-string Portuguese side already assured of progression, Georgia’s triumph marks their most significant achievement since gaining independence in 1991. The match, played amidst a fervent atmosphere with tens of thousands of Georgia fans in attendance, defied all expectations and rankings. Ranked 74th globally, Georgia toppled sixth-ranked Portugal, the Euro 2016 champions.
Coach Willy Sagnol, the former Bayern Munich stalwart, guided his team to a third-place finish in Group F, setting up a thrilling last-16 clash with Spain. Reflecting on the monumental win, Sagnol expressed immense pride in his squad’s performance and highlighted the liberating mindset of being underdogs in the competition.
“This is the best day of my life,” exclaimed Napoli winger Kvaratskhelia, whose early goal set the tone for Georgia’s historic triumph. “We have made history and proven that the Georgian team can achieve the impossible.”
Georgia’s journey to the knockout phase was no easy feat, having navigated through the less prestigious Euro Nations tournament and a playoff victory against Greece. Their resilience was on full display as they defended resolutely against Portugal’s star-studded lineup, frustrating Cristiano Ronaldo’s efforts throughout the match.
Portugal’s coach Roberto Martinez acknowledged his team’s inability to match Georgia’s intensity, conceding that they were outplayed by a determined opponent seizing their moment in history.
The victory also reshuffled the knockout stage matchups, with England facing Slovakia, Romania meeting the Netherlands, and Portugal set to take on Slovenia. Hungary narrowly missed out on advancement.
As the celebrations erupted among Georgia’s squad and supporters, goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili’s late heroics ensured Portugal remained scoreless, sealing an unforgettable night in Gelsenkirchen. Georgia, having narrowly missed victory in previous matches, seized their chance at glory on this historic Wednesday evening.
