Euro 2024 Round Of 16: Spain Vs Georgia

Written By Albert Echatah

On Sunday night, Spain and Georgia will face off in the last-16 of Euro 2024 to determine who gets the quarterfinal ticket. The Georgians stunned the whole world by beating Portugal to advance to the knockout stage, while La Roja breezed through Group B with a perfect record. Now, the two teams are competing for an Euro 2024 quarterfinals berth.

Spain

Luis De la Fuente made ten changes to La Roja’s starting line and still claimed the maximum points, Spain have won three of their group matches at this year’s European Championship , something they haven’t done since their global dominance, which began in 2008.

Spain haven’t conceded a single goal at Euro 2024, De la Fuente has changed his approach to a more direct style of play. Spain have been drawn into what looks like a more difficult part of the draw, where they might face hosts Germany or Denmark in the quarterfinals as well as a potential matchup against the likes of France, Belgium, Portugal and Slovenia in the semis. Before thinking about a potential clash with Europe’s heavyweights, La Roja have to eliminate a tricky Georgian team.

Georgia

Georgia’s underdog mentality has won people over. Before launching their blistering counterattacks spearheaded by the likes of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze, they play a disciplined defence that frustrates opponents.

In their last Group F matchup against Portugal, who had already qualified, the Crusaders took advantage of two defensive errors made by Antonio Silva. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored his first goal of the tournament before Georges Mikautadze scored to keep his Golden Boot dream alive. Georgia have taken the most shots on target of any participating country so far in Germany; nevertheless, The Crusaders wouldn’t be too concerned because they just silenced a star-studded Portuguese team.

Head To Head

Spain have defeated Georgia six times out of seven thus far in all competitions, including the European Championship qualification round. Georgia’s only victory over Spain happened in 2016.

Key Performers

Laporte’s composure and ability to read the game will be key to maintaining their clean sheet record at Euro 2024. Pedri has become the heart of Spain’s possession-based game, his playmaking skills are crucial to breaking down Georgia’s rigid defense.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is a constant threat upfront with his pace. Kvaratskhelia could exploit any gaps in Spain’s defense on the counter-attack. Giorgi Mamardashvili’s shot-stopping abilities could be vital in keeping the scoreline respectable

Verdict

Although Spain are clearly the favourite for this fixture, Georgia’s tenacity shouldn’t be underestimated. Georgia could score a goal on the counter, but expect disciplined game from La Roja.

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