Georgia clinched a historic spot in the Euro 2024 knockout rounds with a remarkable 2-0 victory against Portugal, as the group stage concluded with Turkey, Belgium, Romania, and Slovakia also progressing to the last 16.
Historic Victory for Georgia at Euro 2024
Georgia clinched a historic spot in the knockout stages of Euro 2024 with a remarkable 2-0 victory over Portugal, marking their first-ever win in the European Championship. In the final match of the group stage in Gelsenkirchen, Georgia, participating in their first European Championship, needed a win to advance. Despite Portugal’s earlier qualification for the last 16 and several changes to their lineup, Georgia took an early lead with a brilliant goal from Napoli winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia within the first two minutes. Meanwhile, Turkey, Belgium, Romania, and Slovakia also secured their spots in the last 16.
Georges Mikautadze Leads Georgia to Victory Over Portugal
Georges Mikautadze, after assisting earlier, scored from the penalty spot early in the second half, elevating him as the top scorer of the competition with three goals. It was a tough evening for Portugal, consistently thwarted by Georgia’s standout goalkeeper, Giorgi Mamardashvili. Cristiano Ronaldo, the 39-year-old forward with a record 14 goals in the Euros, continues his quest for his first goal in this year’s tournament. Ranked 74th globally, Georgia now looks forward to facing the highly regarded Spanish team in the next round in Cologne, having advanced as one of the top four third-placed teams.
Georgia’s Remarkable Achievement
Georgia’s coach, Willy Sagnol, expressed immense pride in his team’s performance, highlighting their positive representation of the country. “It’s hard to grasp the magnitude of our achievement,” Sagnol stated. He emphasized his pride in managing a team that has so effectively showcased Georgia’s spirit. This accomplishment comes at a pivotal time for Georgia, a former Soviet republic now aspiring for European Union membership amidst internal political controversies.
Meanwhile, Turkey secured second place in their group following a dramatic 2-1 victory against the Czech Republic in Hamburg, resulting in the Czechs’ elimination. The game saw Turkey capitalize on a numerical advantage from the early dismissal of Czech player Antonin Barak. A late goal by Cenk Tosun clinched the win after Hakan Calhanoglu’s remarkable early second-half goal. The Czech team faced further setbacks with Tomas Chory’s red card post-match.
Turkey is set to face Austria in Leipzig for the last 16, while 2016 champions Portugal prepare for a match against Slovenia in Frankfurt.
Dramatic Group E Finale Sees Ukraine Exit Despite Efforts
In a suspenseful conclusion to Group E, Ukraine was left disheartened as they were eliminated despite earning four points. Both Romania and Slovakia moved on after drawing 1-1 with each other, while Ukraine’s valiant 0-0 draw against Belgium proved insufficient. The teams concluded the group phase tied on points, but Ukraine’s earlier 3-0 loss to Romania placed them last due to goal difference. Meanwhile, Belgium, under scrutiny for their lackluster performance, is set to face France in the knockout stage. The Belgian fans expressed their displeasure loudly at the match’s end, although Kevin De Bruyne urged unity and support for the upcoming challenge against France. Slovakia progresses as a strong third-placed team, setting up a match against England. Ukraine’s exit marks a first in Euro history since the expansion to 24 teams—exiting the group stage with four points. Amidst this, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for national unity, regardless of the outcome. Romania, on the other hand, celebrated reaching the Euros knockout stages for the first time in 24 years by securing a draw, thanks to a penalty converted by Razvan Marin after Ianis Hagi was fouled. Romania is set to play the Netherlands in their next match.
