In a result that reverberated across Euro 2024, Georgia, the tournament debutants, delivered a stunning 2-0 victory against Portugal, a team laden with stars and led by Cristiano Ronaldo. This seismic shock, arguably the biggest of the tournament considering FIFA rankings, propelled Georgia into the knockout stages and left Portugal pondering their complacency. Ranked 74th globally, Georgia capitalized on a rotated Portugal side (ranked 6th), who had already secured their top spot in Group F. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Georgia’s dazzling winger, ignited the upset with a goal in the second minute, setting the stage for Georges Mikautadze to seal the win with a second-half penalty.
Portugal, despite the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo, appeared disjointed and lacked their usual sharpness. Ronaldo, chasing the record of becoming the Euros’ oldest scorer at 39, was substituted in the 66th minute, his frustration evident as he failed to find the net and received a yellow card for dissent. This defeat serves as a wake-up call for Portugal as they prepare to face Slovenia in the round of 16 in Frankfurt. The victor of that match will then confront a formidable opponent from the France vs Belgium clash in the quarter-finals, highlighting a potentially challenging path ahead.
Georgia’s euphoric triumph secured them third place in Group F, setting up a daunting yet exhilarating encounter with Spain in Cologne. Facing the only team in the tournament with a perfect win record, Georgia enters as the underdog but brimming with confidence after their historic victory. They will undoubtedly believe in their ability to orchestrate another upset and extend their fairytale Euro 2024 journey.
Georgia’s Footballing Ascent: From Playoff Dream to Euro Knockouts
Georgia’s qualification for Euro 2024 was already a remarkable achievement, marking their first-ever appearance in a major international tournament. They navigated a challenging path, ultimately overcoming Greece in a playoff penalty shootout in March. Despite finishing fourth in their Euro qualifying group, their Nations League Group C4 victory provided the crucial playoff lifeline.
Before the tournament, Georgia’s manager, Willy Sagnol, emphasized their ambition, stating they were not in Germany for sightseeing. Their performances throughout the group stage have embodied this spirit. They engaged in a captivating match against Turkey, narrowly missed a win against the Czech Republic, and then achieved the improbable against Portugal. Georgia’s approach is characterized by bravery, attacking intent, and a stark contrast to more conservative strategies seen elsewhere in the tournament.
The growing popularity of football in Georgia is underpinned by a strong focus on youth development. Hosting the Under-19 Euros in 2017 and co-hosting the Under-21 Euros in 2023 with Romania demonstrates their commitment to nurturing young talent. Beyond Kvaratskhelia, goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, lauded by Sagnol as among Europe’s elite, and forward Georges Mikautadze, who secured the penalty, have been instrumental to Georgia’s success. Mikautadze’s journey, from a £13 million Ajax signing to a loan return to Metz, adds another layer of intrigue to Georgia’s emerging football narrative. Sagnol’s experience playing in major tournaments with France has proven invaluable in guiding his team through the emotional rollercoaster of Euro 2024.
Ronaldo’s Euro Frustration: A Night to Forget
Cristiano Ronaldo’s frustration was palpable throughout the match against Georgia. Despite Portugal already qualifying for the knockout stages, Ronaldo started, a testament to his relentless competitive drive. However, at 39, he endured a frustrating evening. Denied a penalty after a shirt pull in the 25th minute, Ronaldo’s agitation grew, culminating in a yellow card for dissent and visible anger towards the fourth official upon being substituted at halftime.
Cristiano Ronaldo's shot map from the Portugal vs Georgia Euro 2024 match, highlighting his frustration despite numerous attempts on goal.
Despite taking twelve shots across three Euro 2024 appearances, Ronaldo is yet to score. His frustration boiled over as he left the pitch, shaking hands with his replacement Goncalo Ramos and coach Roberto Martinez, but then kicking a water bottle in frustration before taking his place on the bench. This game underscored a rare off-night for the legendary forward, highlighting the challenges even the greatest face against determined opposition.
Kvaratskhelia: Georgia’s Shining Star on the Euro Stage
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was the undeniable catalyst for Georgia’s historic victory. His talent and influence were evident in every attacking move. Georgia’s manager, Willy Sagnol, strategically repositioned Kvaratskhelia centrally two years prior to maximize his impact. Sagnol recognized Kvaratskhelia’s unique abilities, crucial for a team needing a spark of brilliance.
Kvaratskhelia’s early goal against Portugal exemplified his quality. A swift counter-attack saw him latch onto Mikautadze’s pass, sprint clear, and unleash a precise left-footed shot past goalkeeper Diogo Costa. He continued to threaten throughout the match, demonstrating tireless running and an unwavering commitment that inspired his teammates. Linked with top clubs like Paris Saint-Germain, Kvaratskhelia’s Euro 2024 performances are solidifying his status as a world-class talent, capable of leading Georgia to unprecedented heights.
Portugal’s Rotated Squad: Depth or Weakness Exposed?
Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martinez, opted for significant squad rotation against Georgia, with only Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Palhinha, and Diogo Costa retaining their starting positions from the previous victory over Turkey. This decision mirrored Spain’s successful rotation strategy, but Portugal’s gamble backfired. While intended to provide rest and opportunity to fringe players, the rotated lineup appeared disjointed and lacked cohesion.
Action shot from the Euro 2024 Group F match between Georgia and Portugal, showcasing the intensity of Georgia's historic victory.
A critical error from young centre-back Antonio Silva in the second minute directly led to Kvaratskhelia’s opening goal, highlighting the risks of fielding an inexperienced defense in a high-stakes tournament. Silva later conceded a penalty, compounding a difficult night for the young defender. Pedro Neto, deployed as a left wing-back, was not utilized in his preferred attacking role, further showcasing tactical adjustments that diluted Portugal’s offensive threat.
Despite the defeat, glimpses of promise emerged from players like Joao Felix and Francisco Conceicao. Their creativity and attacking flair offered positives for Martinez. Conceicao’s dribbling ability caused constant problems for Georgia. This match, while a setback, provided Martinez with valuable insights into his squad depth. The prospect of introducing players like Neto, Felix, and Conceicao from the bench in future knockout games remains a potent weapon for Portugal.
Mamardashvili: Euro 2024’s Goalkeeping Sensation?
Giorgi Mamardashvili’s performances at Euro 2024 have been nothing short of exceptional. Prior to the Portugal game, he had conceded four goals but faced an expected goals on target (PSxG) of 7.0, highlighting his remarkable shot-stopping abilities. Against Portugal, Mamardashvili was again outstanding. His spectacular save from Diogo Dalot early in the second half and confident command of his area underlined his quality.
Mamardashvili’s journey from Locomotive Tbilisi to Valencia and now starring at Euro 2024 marks him as a goalkeeper on the rise. While an outstanding goalkeeper from a less-favored nation might once have been considered a tournament discovery, Mamardashvili, at 23, is already recognized as one of Europe’s top young goalkeepers. His Euro 2024 displays are only amplifying his reputation on the international stage.
Conclusion: Georgia’s Dream Continues, Portugal Reassesses
Georgia’s victory over Portugal is more than just a statistical upset; it’s a testament to their growing footballing prowess and unwavering spirit. As they progress to face Spain, their Euro 2024 journey continues to inspire. For Portugal, this defeat serves as a timely reality check. While already qualified, the loss exposes vulnerabilities and emphasizes the need for sharper focus and execution as they enter the knockout rounds. The blend of Georgia’s historic achievement and Portugal’s unexpected stumble makes this match a defining moment of Euro 2024.
