Spain Defeats Georgia 4-1 to Reach Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals Against Germany
Spain has secured a spot in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals with a dominant 4-1 victory over Georgia, setting up an eagerly awaited clash against hosts Germany. Goals from Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Dani Olmo overturned an early own goal by Robin Le Normand, demonstrating Spain’s resilience and attacking strength.
The match began with a shock for Spain as an own goal by Le Normand in the 18th minute gave Georgia the lead, marking the first goal Spain had conceded in the tournament. Spain equalized six minutes before halftime through a strike from Manchester City’s Rodri. Ruiz then put Spain ahead in the 51st minute with a header, followed by a solo effort from Williams for the third goal. Substitute Olmo sealed the win with a precise finish, keeping Spain on track for their fourth European Championship title.
“We have areas to improve, and at times we were not forceful enough, but overall we were superior,” commented Rodri. Spain’s upcoming quarter-final match against Germany in Stuttgart on Friday brings back memories of the Euro 2008 final, where Spain triumphed 1-0, marking the beginning of a period of international dominance. “Germany might be playing at home, but we are not afraid. We are here to win, not just to play well or give off a good image,” Rodri added.
Under the guidance of Luis de la Fuente, Spain was favored to defeat Georgia, a team ranked 74th in the world. Despite this, Georgia made a remarkable run to the knockout stages, including a stunning 2-0 victory over Portugal. “I am not saying we are disappointed, but we are a bit sad because we lost,” Georgia’s coach Willy Sagnol said. “I am sure in a few days we will realize exactly what we have done and the happiness will come back very quickly.”
Georgia’s dynamic duo of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze posed a consistent threat, supported by impressive performances from goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. Mamardashvili thwarted several efforts from Pedri and Dani Carvajal before Georgia’s early goal. Georgia’s breakthrough came from a counterattack initiated by Kvaratskhelia, leading to an own goal by Le Normand. Despite this setback, Spain dominated possession, and Rodri’s equalizer came from a well-placed pass by Williams. Ruiz’s header early in the second half gave Spain the lead, followed by Williams’ solo run and powerful finish to make it 3-1. Olmo’s precise control and finish from the edge of the box completed the scoreline with seven minutes remaining.
