Football News Update: Georgia Stun Portugal in Euro 2024 Qualifier
Georgia 2-0 Portugal
In a stunning upset, Georgia defeated Portugal 2-0 in their Euro 2024 qualifier match on Sunday. Kvhicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze scored the goals for the underdogs, securing a historic win for the Georgian national team.
“the best day in the lives of Georgians.”
- Kvhicha Kvaratskhelia, Napoli forward
Kvaratskhelia, the 23-year-old Napoli forward, scored inside the first two minutes, setting the tone for a remarkable performance by the Georgian side. Mikautadze then converted a second-half penalty following a VAR review, further cementing Georgia’s lead.
The win against one of the tournament favorites, who are ranked 68 places above them, was a testament to Georgia’s team unity and determination. Kvaratskhelia praised the collective effort, saying, “There was no individual best player, it was a team effort and we showed that we could play.”
Despite the changes made by Portugal manager Roberto Martínez, who rested several key players, the Georgian team displayed impressive defensive solidity and the heroics of goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. Martínez acknowledged the deserved nature of the victory, stating, “We didn’t underestimate Georgia. I think their goalkeeper Mamardashvili had an amazing performance.”
The win secures a knockout tie against Spain in Cologne on Sunday for the Georgian national team, who are making their first appearance in a major tournament. Kvaratskhelia, who grew up idolizing Cristiano Ronaldo, exchanged shirts with the Portuguese captain at the final whistle, describing the moment as “so much” for him.
This historic triumph will undoubtedly be celebrated by football fans across Georgia, as the country’s national team continues to defy the odds and make their mark on the international stage.
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