by In one of the most stunning upsets in European Championship history, the georgia national football team vs portugal national football team lineups told a tale of David versus Goliath.
Georgia, making their debut in a major tournament and ranked 74th by FIFA, shocked the football world by defeating Portugal, one of Europe’s powerhouse teams.
This match wasn’t just about the lineups – it was about heart, determination, and tactical brilliance from the Georgian underdogs.
The game opened with an immediate bang as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia put Georgia ahead within just 93 seconds, setting the tone for what would become a historic victory.
Despite Portugal having most of the possession and fielding stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, the georgia national football team vs Portugal national football team lineups showed a clear difference in approach – with Portugal focusing on attacking flair.
At the same time, Georgia maintained a disciplined defensive shape, looking to strike on the counter.
Georgia National Football Team Vs Portugal National Football Team Lineups
This victory secured Georgia’s place in the last 16 of Euro 2024 and cemented their status as the tournament’s beloved underdogs, proving that rankings and reputations mean nothing when determination and teamwork take center stage.
Match Overview
The clash between Georgia and Portugal will be remembered as one of the greatest upsets in European Championship history. Let’s look at what made this match so special:
- Historic Significance: Georgia’s first-ever appearance in a major tournament
- Rankings Gap: Portugal (European elite) vs Georgia (74th in FIFA rankings)
- Key Moment: Kvaratskhelia scoring within the first minute
- End Result: Georgia qualified for the knockout stages in their debut tournament
The match showcased Georgia’s disciplined defensive approach against Portugal’s possession-based game. While Portugal dominated ball possession, Georgia executed a perfect counterattacking strategy that frustrated the Portuguese stars, including Cristiano Ronaldo who was visibly upset throughout the match and eventually substituted.
Georgia XI: The Starting Lineup
Georgia’s lineup was carefully constructed to maximize their defensive solidity while maintaining threat on the counter. Let’s examine each player’s contribution to this historic victory:
Mamardashvili
Giorgi Mamardashvili proved to be an impenetrable wall in Georgia’s goal during their Euro 2024 campaign. His performance against Portugal was particularly outstanding:
- Made several crucial saves throughout the match
- Confidently collected Joao Felix’s long-range attempts
- Denied Cristiano Ronaldo’s header attempt
- Showed exceptional positioning and reflexes
Mamardashvili’s journey from Dinamo Tbilisi to Valencia demonstrates his rapid rise in European football. His calmness under pressure and shot-stopping abilities were fundamental to Georgia’s defensive strategy against Portugal’s attacking talents.
The young goalkeeper has been outstanding for Georgia throughout Euro 2024. His move from Dinamo Tbilisi to Valencia signaled his growing reputation, and his performances on the international stage have only enhanced his standing. Against Portugal, his ability to make key saves at critical moments kept Georgia in the lead when Portugal threatened to equalize.
Gvelesiani
Gvelesiani’s role in Georgia’s backline was crucial in maintaining their defensive shape against Portugal’s relentless attacks:
- Helped Georgia maintain their defensive structure
- Closed down spaces effectively, limiting Portugal’s attacking options
- Part of the defensive unit that frustrated Portugal’s star-studded attack
- Was eventually substituted for Kvirkvelia to provide fresh legs in defense
His disciplined positioning and ability to read the game helped Georgia withstand Portugal’s pressure, especially during periods when Portugal dominated possession. Gvelesiani’s understanding with his defensive partners ensured that Portugal, despite their technical superiority, struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Working alongside Jonathan Gwineli, the team captain, Gvelesiani helped form a resolute defensive barrier that kept Portugal’s attacking talents at bay. His ability to block shots and intercept passes was instrumental in Georgia’s defensive masterclass.
Kakabadze
Kakabadze played a vital role in Georgia’s defensive setup, particularly in dealing with Portugal’s wide attacks:
- Helped contain Portugal’s wingers throughout the match
- Contributed to Georgia’s defensive solidity
- Supported counter-attacks when possible
- Maintained positional discipline against Portugal’s attacking threats
His presence helped Georgia maintain their defensive shape, which proved crucial in frustrating Portugal’s attacking players and limiting their clear-cut chances despite having significant possession. Kakabadze’s ability to read the game and make timely interventions prevented Portugal from exploiting the wide areas effectively.
As Portugal pushed forward in search of an equalizer, Kakabadze remained disciplined and focused, refusing to be drawn out of position. This defensive discipline was a hallmark of Georgia’s approach throughout the match and a key factor in their historic victory.
Kochorashvili
Kochorashvili delivered an outstanding defensive performance in midfield:
- Exceptional at breaking up Portugal’s attacking plays
- Made crucial interceptions and tackles
- Helped Georgia transition from defense to attack
- Headed away dangerous balls, including one from a counter initiated by Inacio’s giveaway
His work rate and defensive awareness were instrumental in Georgia’s ability to contain Portugal’s creative midfielders and limit their effectiveness in the final third. Kochorashvili’s tireless running and positional intelligence helped Georgia maintain their shape when under pressure.
The midfielder’s contribution went beyond defensive duties, as he also played a role in launching counter-attacks whenever Georgia regained possession. His ability to read the game and anticipate Portugal’s moves disrupted their rhythm and prevented them from establishing control in midfield.
Chakvetadze
Giorgi Chakvetadze became one of Georgia’s heroes in this historic match:
- Converted the crucial penalty against Antonio Silva
- Attempted to create attacking opportunities throughout the match
- Showed good movement off the ball to provide passing options
- Worked tirelessly in both attack and defense
His penalty conversion proved to be decisive in Georgia’s victory, demonstrating his composure under pressure in such a high-stakes situation. Chakvetadze’s technical ability and game intelligence made him a constant threat whenever Georgia ventured forward.
In a game where Georgia had limited possession, Chakvetadze maximized his touches on the ball, making them count with purposeful passes and movement. His ability to retain possession under pressure gave Georgia valuable respite during periods of intense Portuguese pressure.
Kiteishvili
Kiteishvili’s performance exemplified Georgia’s fighting spirit and tactical discipline:
- Maintained Georgia’s defensive shape throughout the match
- Came close to scoring with a shot that hit the side netting
- Worked effectively to close down Portugal’s midfield options
- Contributed to Georgia’s counter-attacking strategy
His energy and commitment helped Georgia withstand Portugal’s pressure, particularly in the second half when Portugal were desperately searching for an equalizer. Kiteishvili’s willingness to track back and support the defense while also offering an outlet in attack epitomized Georgia’s collective work ethic.
As Portugal grew increasingly frustrated, Kiteishvili maintained his focus and discipline, refusing to be drawn out of position. His understanding of when to press and when to hold position was crucial in Georgia’s defensive strategy, disrupting Portugal’s passing patterns and forcing them into mistakes.
Lochoshvili
Luka Lochoshvili played a critical role in Georgia’s defensive setup:
- Was involved in a key moment when Ronaldo appealed for a penalty after his push
- Helped maintain Georgia’s defensive line
- Made important clearances and blocks
- Contributed to frustrating Portugal’s attacking players
The incident with Ronaldo highlighted Georgia’s physical approach, which successfully disrupted Portugal’s attacking rhythm throughout the match. Lochoshvili’s no-nonsense defending and physical presence made him a formidable obstacle for Portugal’s attackers.
His disciplined positioning and timely interventions were crucial in Georgia’s defensive organization. When Portugal applied pressure, particularly in the second half, Lochoshvili remained calm and focused, making crucial clearances and blocks to preserve Georgia’s lead.
Mikautadze
Mikautadze proved to be a constant threat for Georgia in attack:
- Doubled Georgia’s advantage with a well-taken penalty
- Held up play effectively as a central striker
- Made excellent runs into channels to stretch Portugal’s defense
- Showed good link-up play with teammates
His ability to lead the line and provide an outlet for Georgia’s counter-attacks was crucial in their victory. His penalty conversion demonstrated his composure under pressure and his technical ability to execute in high-pressure situations.
As a forward playing for Metz, Mikautadze has demonstrated his versatility, capable of playing as a central striker or in a supporting role. Against Portugal, his ability to hold up the ball and bring teammates into play gave Georgia valuable respite when under pressure. His intelligent movement and clinical finishing made him a constant concern for Portugal’s defense.
Kvaratskhelia
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia emerged as the star of the show for Georgia:
- Scored the opening goal after just 93 seconds
- Took advantage of Antonio Silva’s mistake to put Georgia ahead
- Continued to threaten throughout the match with his pace and dribbling
- Nearly scored a second when his shot hit the side netting
The Napoli star’s early goal set the tone for Georgia’s performance and gave them the confidence to believe in their ability to secure a historic result. Kvaratskhelia’s technical ability, pace, and clinical finishing made him the standout performer in this memorable encounter.
His early strike not only gave Georgia a dream start but also forced Portugal to chase the game, which played into Georgia’s counter-attacking strategy. Throughout the match, Kvaratskhelia remained a threat with his direct running and close control, providing Georgia with a valuable outlet during periods of sustained Portuguese pressure.
Tactical Analysis
Georgia’s approach against Portugal was a masterclass in underdog tactics:
| Aspect | Georgia | Portugal |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | Lowest among qualifying teams | Dominated possession |
| Defensive Shape | Compact, disciplined 5-4-1 | High defensive line |
| Attack Strategy | Quick counters | Patient build-up |
| Key Tactic | Exploiting defensive errors | Breaking down organized defense |
| Result | Efficient, clinical finishing | Frustrated by Georgia’s defense |
Georgia’s coach Willy Sagnol deserves immense credit for preparing his team perfectly for this challenge. Despite having significantly less possession, Georgia’s organization and counter-attacking threat proved more effective than Portugal’s possession-based approach.
Sagnol’s tactical setup recognized Georgia’s limitations against a technically superior opponent and played to their strengths instead. By maintaining a compact defensive shape and looking to strike on the counter, Georgia maximized their chances of success. The early goal played perfectly into this strategy, allowing them to defend deeper and frustrate Portugal’s attacking players.
Portugal’s approach, centered around patient build-up play and possession, proved ineffective against Georgia’s disciplined defensive block. Despite having technically gifted players like Ronaldo, Joao Felix, and Bernardo Silva, Portugal struggled to create clear-cut chances, often resorting to speculative shots from distance that were comfortably dealt with by Mamardashvili.
Key Match Moments
The match was defined by several crucial moments that swung the momentum in Georgia’s favor:
Kvaratskhelia’s Early Strike
- Just 93 seconds into the match
- Capitalized on Antonio Silva’s careless pass
- Perfect finish past the Portuguese goalkeeper
- Set the tone for Georgia’s confident performance
This early goal allowed Georgia to implement their defensive game plan perfectly, forcing Portugal to chase the game and potentially leave spaces for counter-attacks. The goal came from a defensive error by Antonio Silva, highlighting Georgia’s ability to punish mistakes at this level.
The early strike stunned Portugal and energized the Georgian players and fans. It gave Georgia the belief that they could compete with one of Europe’s elite teams and set the foundation for their historic victory.
Penalty Decision
- Silva fouled Lochoshvili inside the box
- VAR review confirmed the penalty
- Mikautadze stepped up and converted confidently
- Doubled Georgia’s advantage at a crucial time
The penalty conversion gave Georgia breathing room and forced Portugal to become even more desperate in their attacks, which played into Georgia’s counter-attacking strategy. The VAR review ensured that the decision was correct, and Mikautadze showed remarkable composure to convert the spot-kick.
This second goal further frustrated Portugal and increased their sense of urgency, leading to more direct but less controlled attacking play. Georgia’s two-goal cushion allowed them to defend with even greater discipline and confidence.
Ronaldo’s Frustration
- Portugal’s star player grew increasingly agitated
- Had a penalty appeal rejected after Lochoshvili’s push
- Was substituted in the 66th minute
- Kicked water bottles in anger as he left the pitch
Ronaldo’s visible frustration symbolized Portugal’s inability to break down Georgia’s organized defense despite their superior individual talent. His substitution in the 66th minute marked a low point in what had been a difficult evening for the Portuguese icon.
The sight of Ronaldo kicking water bottles as he left the field encapsulated Portugal’s collective frustration. Despite their technical superiority and dominance of possession, they were unable to find a way through Georgia’s resolute defense, leading to increasing desperation and frustration as the match progressed.
The Significance of Georgia’s Victory
This win represented more than just three points for Georgia:
- Historic Achievement: First major tournament appearance and qualification for knockout stages
- National Pride: Enormous celebration across Georgia
- Football Fairy Tale: One of the greatest upsets in European Championship history
- Future Impact: Potential boost for football development in Georgia
For a nation making their debut at a major tournament, reaching the knockout stages by defeating a powerhouse like Portugal represents an extraordinary achievement that will inspire generations of Georgian players. The victory has put Georgian football on the map and demonstrated that with proper organization and belief, even smaller footballing nations can compete with the established powers.
The scenes of celebration in Georgia highlighted the significance of this achievement for the nation. Football has the power to unite people and create moments of collective joy, and Georgia’s victory over Portugal provided exactly that for the Georgian population.
Post-Match Reactions
The reactions from both camps highlighted the contrasting emotions:
- Georgia: Celebration, pride, and disbelief at their historic achievement
- Portugal: Disappointment and frustration at failing to break down Georgia’s defense
- Neutral Observers: Praised Georgia’s tactical discipline and fighting spirit
- Media: Hailed the result as one of the tournament’s biggest surprises
Georgia’s players celebrated wildly at the final whistle, recognizing the magnitude of their achievement in front of their passionate supporters. Coach Willy Sagnol, a former Bayern Munich defender, emerged as a national hero for his tactical approach that enabled this historic victory.
The contrast between Georgia’s jubilation and Portugal’s dejection was stark. Portuguese players and staff struggled to come to terms with their inability to break down Georgia’s defense despite their technical superiority and tournament experience.
Coach’s Influence
Willy Sagnol’s impact on Georgia’s performance cannot be overstated:
- Implemented a perfect tactical plan against a superior opponent
- Fostered belief and fighting spirit within the squad
- Made key substitutions at the right moments
- Created a cohesive team unit greater than the sum of its parts
The former Bayern Munich defender brought his experience and tactical acumen to bear in preparing Georgia for this challenge. His understanding of defensive organization and counter-attacking football proved perfect for Georgia’s resources and helped them achieve what many considered impossible.
Sagnol’s calm demeanor on the sidelines transmitted to his players, who remained focused and disciplined throughout the match despite intense Portuguese pressure. His ability to maintain the team’s concentration and belief was crucial in seeing out this historic victory.
The Role of the Fans
The Georgian supporters played a significant part in their team’s success:
- Created an electric atmosphere at the Veltins Arena
- Celebrated wildly after Kvaratskhelia’s early goal
- Provided constant vocal support throughout the match
- Shared in the joy and disbelief of Georgia’s historic achievement
The connection between the Georgian players and their passionate fans was evident throughout the match, with the crowd’s energy helping to lift the team during difficult periods. For many Georgian fans, simply seeing their nation compete at a major tournament was a dream come true. Witnessing a victory over Portugal and qualification for the knockout stages exceeded all expectations.
The scenes of celebration in the stands mirrored those on the pitch at the final whistle. Georgian players acknowledged the supporters’ contribution, sharing this historic moment with those who had traveled to support them.
Looking Ahead
After this historic victory, both teams faced different paths:
- Georgia: Qualified as one of the best third-placed teams
- Portugal: Despite the loss, still advanced as group winners
- Next Opponents: Georgia would face another third-placed team, while Portugal would meet Slovenia
For Georgia, the opportunity to continue their fairy tale in the knockout stages represented another chance to defy expectations against more established footballing nations. Having already achieved what many considered impossible by reaching the last 16, they could play with freedom and confidence, unburdened by expectation.
Portugal, despite this disappointing result, still progressed as group winners and would face Slovenia in the quarter-finals. The defeat served as a wake-up call, highlighting areas for improvement if they were to progress further in the tournament.
Impact on World Football
Georgia’s victory reinforces several important aspects of modern football:
- Tactical organization can overcome individual talent
- The gap has narrowed between traditional powers and smaller nations
- Tournament football is unpredictable and creates memorable moments
- Collective spirit remains football’s most powerful asset
This result will be remembered alongside other great tournament upsets such as Greece’s Euro 2004 victory and Iceland’s defeat of England at Euro 2016. It demonstrates that with proper organization, belief, and tactical discipline, even nations with limited footballing pedigree can compete at the highest level.
For developing football nations, Georgia’s achievement provides inspiration and a template for success. Rather than trying to match the technical abilities of established powers, focusing on organizational strength, defensive solidity, and efficient counter-attacking can yield remarkable results.
Player Development and Future Prospects
Georgia’s success at Euro 2024 could have lasting implications for football in the country:
- Greater international recognition for Georgian players
- Increased investment in football infrastructure
- Higher profile for the domestic league
- More young Georgians inspired to take up the sport
Players like Kvaratskhelia, who already represents Napoli in Serie A, have shown that Georgian footballers can compete at the highest level. This tournament success will likely open doors for more Georgian talents to move to top European leagues, further enhancing the national team’s prospects.
The experience gained from competing in, and succeeding at, Euro 2024 will be invaluable for this generation of Georgian players. Having tasted success on the international stage, they will approach future tournaments with greater belief and confidence.
FAQs
- When did Georgia score their first goal against Portugal?
Georgia took the lead after just 93 seconds through Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who capitalized on Antonio Silva’s mistake to score the opening goal.
- Who was Georgia’s standout player in the match?
While the entire team performed admirably, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia stood out with his early goal and constant threat, while goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili made several crucial saves.
- How did Cristiano Ronaldo react to being substituted?
Ronaldo showed visible frustration when substituted in the 66th minute, kicking water bottles in anger as he left the pitch after a disappointing performance.
- What was Georgia’s ranking before the Euro 2024 tournament?
Georgia was ranked 74th in the FIFA rankings before Euro 2024, making them one of the lowest-ranked teams in the tournament.
- Who will Georgia face in the knockout stages?
After qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams, Georgia would face another third-placed team in the last 16 of Euro 2024.
- Was this Georgia’s first appearance in a major tournament?
Yes, Euro 2024 marked Georgia’s first-ever appearance in a major international tournament, making their qualification for the knockout stages even more remarkable.
- Who was Georgia’s coach during this historic victory?
Willy Sagnol, a former Bayern Munich defender, was Georgia’s coach. His tactical approach and ability to organize the team were crucial factors in their success.
- How many goals did Georgia score against Portugal?
Georgia scored two goals against Portugal – an early strike from Kvaratskhelia and a penalty converted by Mikautadze.
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Conclusion
The georgia national football team vs portugal national football team lineups clash at Euro 2024 will be remembered as one of the tournament’s defining moments. Georgia’s victory represents the beautiful unpredictability of football, where rankings and reputations count for nothing on the day. Their disciplined defensive setup, clinical counter-attacking, and fighting spirit enabled them to overcome a star-studded Portugal side and create their own piece of footballing history.
For a nation making their debut at a major tournament, reaching the knockout stages is an extraordinary achievement that will inspire a generation of young Georgian players. Their victory over Portugal stands as testament to what can be achieved through tactical discipline, teamwork, and belief.
The contributions of key players like Kvaratskhelia, Mamardashvili, and Mikautadze will be remembered in Georgian football folklore, as will the tactical masterclass provided by coach Willy Sagnol. Together, they created a moment that transcends sport, bringing national pride and joy to Georgia.
As Georgia progressed to the last 16, they carried with them not just their own dreams but the hearts of neutral fans everywhere who love an underdog story. Regardless of what happened next in their Euro 2024 journey, their victory over Portugal had already secured their place in European Championship folklore.
This match serves as a powerful reminder that in football, as in life, anything is possible when determination, belief, and teamwork come together – even for a team ranked 74th in the world taking on one of Europe’s traditional powerhouses. The Georgia national football team vs Portugal national football team lineups told a tale of David defeating Goliath, adding another chapter to football’s rich tapestry of memorable upsets and unforgettable moments.
