PeakNews Online
In a dramatic and hard-fought encounter, Spain overcame a resilient Georgia side to secure a 4-1 victory and set up a blockbuster quarter-final clash with Euro 2024 hosts Germany.
Playing in their first major tournament, Georgia absorbed heavy pressure from Spain early on but stunned the spectators at Cologne Stadium by taking a surprise lead in the 18th minute. A devastating counter-attack saw Spain defender Robin le Normand inadvertently poke Otar Kakabadze’s curling cross into his own net, silencing the Spanish supporters.
Georgia’s confidence soared following the goal, with substitutes sprinting over to celebrate with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who was instrumental in leading the celebrations. Despite Georgia’s newfound confidence, Spain’s relentless pressure eventually paid off when Manchester City’s Rodri drilled a shot into the bottom corner, equalizing the score and beating Georgia’s outstanding goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Spain continued to excite with their attacking play, creating numerous chances. Their persistence was rewarded when Fabian Ruiz headed in a cross from 16-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal. Georgia, undeterred, continued to battle, and Napoli winger Kvaratskhelia nearly scored the goal of the tournament with a clever chip from the halfway line, only to see it narrowly miss the target.
However, Spain’s possession game ultimately took control. Nico Williams struck powerfully into the roof of the net to make it 3-1, and Dani Olmo’s precise finish capped off the scoring, sealing Spain’s victory.
Next up for Spain is a highly anticipated quarter-final match against European giants and home favorites Germany in Stuttgart on Friday. Georgia, meanwhile, exits the competition after a fairytale run that saw them exceed all expectations.
“This is the path we are on. Germany at home will be very strong, but we have no fear,” said Rodri about Spain’s next match. “I’m sure they will be worried about us too. We will have to play fantastically, but we are here to try to win, not just to play well or give a good image. We are going all out to try to win.”
The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to continue their journey in Euro 2024.
Joe
