It is no understatement to say that Georgia qualifying for the knockout stages of UEFA EURO 2024 is the greatest achievement in Georgian football history. That they are even at the tournament is a feat in of its own; they reached the Euros qualifying play-offs through the UEFA Nations League, then beat EURO 2004 winners Greece on penalties to qualify for their first ever major tournament.
An opening day defeat to Türkiye was a reality check for the Georgians, but not enough to dampen their spirits nor hopes. They went on to earn a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Czechia to take their qualification hopes to the final matchday, albeit needing a result against one of the tournament favourites and powerhouses, Portugal.
Inside two minutes, star player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored his first goal of the tournament at the perfect time to give Georgia the lead. They held onto the advantage going into the break, before a second-half penalty from Georges Mikautadze gave Georgia breathing space and a stunning 2-0 win in Gelsenkirchen.
Georgia have already written history by reaching the knockout stages at the first time of asking, announcing their arrival on the continental stage on their debut. Their reward? A round of 16 clash with three-time European champions and best group stage performers, Spain in Cologne on Sunday (30 June) night.
