Georgia performed impressively to surprise Portugal on the final matchday of Group F Euro 2024. Unexpectedly, Georgia beat Cristiano Ronaldo et al. with a convincing score of 2-0.
Thursday 27 June 2024, this fierce match will be played at the AufSchalke Arena. Portugal is certain to qualify as group winners, while Georgia must win to maintain hopes of qualifying for the knockout phase.
The match was intense, Portugal appeared dominant, but it was Georgia who managed to steal the victory. This time, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia opened his team’s lead in the 2nd minute, then Georges Mikautadze scored a penalty in the 57th minute to make it happen.
This result does not change Portugal’s position, which still finished as champions of Group F of the 2024 European Cup. Georgia finished in third place, so there is a chance to qualify for the round of 16 through the best third-placed team.
The match just started and Georgia immediately kicked off. In the 2nd minute, Antonio Silva’s blunder was maximized by Kvaratskheila who took the ball to the edge of the penalty box and shot hard into the bottom corner. Goal! Georgia 1-0 Portugal.
Georgia’s quick goal forced Portugal to play more aggressively. In the 17th minute, Ronaldo got a free kick opportunity. The kick was hard and accurate, but Mamardashvili could still push it away.
Portugal’s attacks continued to force Georgia to play defensively until 30 minutes into the match. Ronaldo was annoyed with the referee for ignoring his opponent’s violation against him in the penalty box.
Entering the final 10 minutes, Portugal tried to increase the tempo, but Georgia could defend very well. Georgia goalkeeper Mamardashvili deserves a thumbs up. Score 1-0.
The match resumed and it was clear that Portugal immediately attacked the opponent. Georgia is not without resistance. In the 50th minute, Kvaratskhelia’s attempt forced Costa to scramble to make a save.
In the 55th minute, Georgia was awarded a penalty. Silva dropped Lochosvili in the restricted area. Mikautadze then stepped forward as executioner and shot hard into the bottom right corner. Goal! Georgia 2-0 Portugal.
Georgia’s second goal was clearly a blow for Portugal. Indeed, this match is no longer meaningful for Portugal, who have already qualified, but the team’s confidence is still hit. Ronaldo was withdrawn in the 66th minute.
Portugal was still looking for an equalizer until the match entered the final 10 minutes. Several opportunities were created, but they weren’t really ripe for Portugal. Final score 2-0 in favor of Georgia.
