Georgia made history by reaching their first major tournament knockout stage with a victory over Portugal at Euro 2024.
Portugal, having already secured the top spot in the group, were stunned just two minutes into the match when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia fired a low shot past Diogo Costa.
Georgia set the tone by capitalizing on a quick counterattack after regaining possession, and this approach defined much of the game.
The underdogs didn’t dominate possession but made their opportunities count. Georges Mikautadze converted a second-half penalty to further Georgia’s shocking success.
Georgia allowed Portugal to control possession but remained resolute in defense, closing down spaces and limiting Portugal’s chances while waiting for counterattacking opportunities.
Despite having few chances themselves, Georgia effectively neutralized Portugal’s attacks. The Group F winners grew increasingly frustrated as they struggled to break down Georgia’s well-organized defense.
Cristiano Ronaldo received little service in the final third, and Portugal’s midfielders failed to produce meaningful passes beyond maintaining possession, leading to a lackluster performance.
Georgia’s victory over Portugal marked the biggest upset in Euros history based on FIFA rankings, creating a memorable night in their debut major tournament. They will now face Spain in the last 16, while Portugal will take on Slovenia.
Organised Georgia complete biggest Euros shock
Georgia had the lowest average possession of any team in Euro qualifying, but they still managed to reach the finals. Against Portugal, they maintained this trend, focusing on what needed to be done—and did it with flair.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who had an impressive season with Napoli in 2022-23, struggled to find form in Germany until Wednesday’s game, where he rose to the occasion.
Georgia’s coach, Willy Sagnol, instructed Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze to stay high up the pitch, ready to capitalize on any mistakes from Portugal. This strategy paid off early when Mikautadze intercepted a misplaced pass from Antonio Silva and set up the opening goal.
Goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who had been instrumental in their 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic, had a relatively quiet night as Portugal failed to pose a significant threat.
Cristiano Ronaldo managed a long-range free-kick and a deflected shot onto the net’s roof, but he was otherwise contained. The 39-year-old, aiming to become the oldest player to score at the Euros, left the pitch frustrated in the second half.
For Georgia’s young players, it was a night to remember. Mikautadze, 23, scored in each group-stage game, and now Kvaratskhelia has shown his potential. They look to continue their historic run in a challenging match against Spain.