Spain advanced to a highly anticipated quarter-final clash with Euro 2024 hosts Germany after surviving an early scare to comfortably defeat tournament debutants Georgia at Cologne Stadium.
Despite facing heavy pressure from Spain in the opening stages, Georgia stunned the crowd when they took a surprise lead after 18 minutes. Spanish defender Robin le Normand inadvertently poked Otar Kakabadze’s curling cross into his own net, finishing off a devastating counter-attack and silencing the supporters behind their goal. The Georgian bench, led by star player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, erupted in celebration.
However, Spain’s relentless pressure eventually paid off as Manchester City midfielder Rodri drilled a shot into the bottom corner, beating the otherwise outstanding Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. Spain continued to create numerous chances, and they capitalized when Fabian Ruiz nodded in a cross from 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal.
Georgia refused to back down, and Napoli winger Kvaratskhelia nearly scored the goal of the tournament with a clever chip from the halfway line that narrowly missed the post.
Despite Georgia’s flair and unpredictability, Spain’s accomplished possession game ultimately took control. Nico Williams struck powerfully into the roof of the net to make it 3-1, before Dani Olmo’s precise finish capped off the victory.
Spain now face a blockbuster quarter-final tie against European giants and home favourites Germany in Stuttgart on Friday. Georgia, meanwhile, exit the competition after a fairytale run in which they vastly exceeded expectations.
“This is the path we are in. Germany at home will be very strong, but we have no fear,” said Rodri, looking ahead to Spain’s next match. “I’m sure they will be worried about us too. We will have to play fantastic, but we are here to try to win, not just play well or give a good image. We are going all out to try to win.”