Football News: Georgia Hold Czech Republic to Thrilling Euro 2024 Draw
In a pulsating Group F clash at the Euro 2024 tournament in Hamburg, Georgia secured their first-ever point at a major competition after a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic.
The game was marked by a standout performance from Georgia’s goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who produced a man-of-the-match display to frustrate the Czech attack. Against the run of play, Georges Mikautadze gave Georgia the lead from the penalty spot in the fourth minute of first-half injury-time, after the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) had spotted a handball by Czech defender Robin Hranac.
“Twenty-six attempts speak for themselves. We have to admit we were glad that our opponents did not convert their chance on the counter in the last minute,” – Ivan Hasek, Czech Republic boss
The Czechs had dominated possession before the break, with Adam Hlozek’s strike rightly disallowed for handball by the VAR midway through the first half. However, they did deservedly draw level just before the hour mark as Patrik Schick tapped in from close range after substitute Ondrej Lingr had headed a corner across the six-yard box. This was Schick’s sixth goal for his country in just seven European championship games, although he was forced off with a calf injury soon after.
The impressive Mamardashvili, who is reportedly of interest to Newcastle United this summer, kept his opponents at bay with a series of excellent saves. Georgia, making their debut at a major tournament, should have won it with the very last kick of the game, but substitute Saba Lobzhanidze blasted over with just the goalkeeper to beat and the goal gaping.
This draw does, however, boost Scotland’s chances of now making the knockouts as one of the best third-placed teams, with Steve Clarke’s side possibly able to progress with just two points.
Czech Republic boss Ivan Hasek praised Georgia and their coach Willy Sagnol, acknowledging that his side had dominated the game but failed to score the second goal.
The thrilling encounter between Georgia and the Czech Republic has set the stage for an exciting continuation of the Euro 2024 tournament, as teams jockey for position in the group stage.
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