Georgian National Team Defeats Portugal to Reach Euro Playoffs
In a surprising turn of events, the Georgian national team defeated Portugal 2-0 in the third round of the Euro 2024 group stage, advancing to the playoffs. This match, held in Gelsenkirchen, marked a historic achievement for Georgia, debutants at the European Championships, as they secured a spot in the Round of 16 by finishing third in their group.
The goals were scored by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the 2nd minute and Georges Mikautadze, who netted a penalty in the 57th minute. Mikautadze also became the top scorer of the group stage with three goals.
RBC Sport provided live coverage of the match.
In a simultaneous Group F game, Turkey defeated the Czech Republic 2-1.
The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, advance to the Round of 16. Portugal topped the group with six points, followed by Turkey, also with six points. Georgia, with four points, secured third place, while the Czech Republic, with one point, was eliminated.
This is the first time Georgia has participated in the main stage of a major tournament, either Euro or World Cup.
In the Round of 16, Portugal will face Slovenia on July 1 in Frankfurt am Main, Turkey will play against Austria on July 2 in Leipzig, and Georgia will meet Spain on June 30 in Cologne.
