2024-07-01 23:25:01
Spain displayed impressive resilience and style as they overcame an early setback to defeat a determined Georgia 4-1 on Sunday, securing a thrilling Euro 2024 quarter-final match-up with Germany. Despite a strong early offensive from Georgia and several excellent saves by their keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, Georgia took a surprising lead in the 18th minute. Otar Kakabadze’s powerful cross was inadvertently deflected into Spain’s net by Robin Le Normand.
Spain equalised in the 39th minute when Rodri scored from the edge of the box. Shortly after, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia nearly netted a sensational goal for Georgia from near the halfway line. However, Fabian Ruiz put Spain ahead with a header six minutes into the second half.
Euro 2024, Round Of 16: Full list of fixtures
Persistently attacking, Spain faced fierce resistance from the tireless Georgians until Nico Williams broke through to score the third goal. Dani Olmo then added the fourth, sealing Spain’s fourth victory of the tournament seven minutes from the final whistle.
Spain had a remarkable 35 shots on goal against Georgia with 13 of them being on target. This was also the first time that Spain had won a knockout stage match in normal time since their 4-0 thrashing of Italy in the 2012 final.
Germany will be very difficult
Speaking after the win, as quoted by Reuters, Williams said the team was thrilled to reach the quarters and expects Germany to be a tough game for Spain. However the winger feels the Spain side is well-structured and can beat anyone.
“We are very happy to get through to the quarter-finals, very excited.
“Step-by-step we have shown that we are a great team and if we continue at this level we can do great things. Their goal was a mistake, it was unintentional, we all cheered Robin on and in the end we are all pleased and happy.
“(Germany will be) very difficult, they’re a tough nut to crack, but we have a wonderful, well-structured team and if we play at this level we can win.”
Spain will now face Germany on Friday, July 5 in Stuttgart. The hosts had defeated Denmark in the Round Of 16 to make their way into the quarterfinals.
