The UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 is set to witness an exciting encounter between Spain and Georgia on Sunday, June 30th at the Cologne Stadium in Cologne.
Spain, the only team to win all three of their group games, will be looking to extend their impressive run and maintain their clean sheet record.
Georgia, on the other hand, will be seeking to cause another upset after defeating Portugal 2-0 to progress to the knockout stage.
Spain's performance in the group stage was nothing short of exceptional, with three wins and no goals conceded. This feat is reminiscent of their successful campaign in 2012, when they last won the European Championship. Their defense has been solid, and their attack has been clinical, making them a formidable opponent for any team.
Georgia, however, has also made a statement in the tournament, defeating Portugal 2-0 to reach the round of 16. This win was a testament to their growing strength and determination. Although Spain has a dominant record against Georgia, winning six of their seven matches, Georgia's only win against Spain came in 2016, and they will be hoping to repeat that feat.
The winner of this match will face Germany in the quarterfinals, who defeated Denmark 2-0 to progress.
Germany will be a tough opponent, but both Spain and Georgia will be focusing on their own game plan and strategy to emerge victorious.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his respect for Georgia, acknowledging their impressive performance against Portugal. He emphasized the need for his team to produce their best version to overcome the Georgian challenge. Georgia coach Willy Sagnol, on the other hand, is proud of his team's achievement and believes that they can cause another upset. He emphasized the importance of not just defending but also showcasing their offensive capabilities.
Both teams have been in good form lately, with Spain unbeaten in their last six matches and Georgia with four wins, one draw, and one loss in their last six.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri returns from a one-match ban and is expected to join the Spain starting eleven again.
The possible starting lineups for both teams suggest a strong contest, with Spain's Pedri, Rodri, and Morata likely to pose a threat to Georgia's defense.
Georgia's Kvaratskhelia and Mikautadze will be looking to replicate their impressive performance against Portugal.
Spain possible starting lineup:
Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Pedri, Rodri, Ruiz; Yamal, Morata, Williams
Georgia possible starting lineup:
Mamardashvili; Tsitaishvili, Dvali, Kashia, Kverkvelia, Kakabadze; Kochorashvili, Kiteishvili, Chakvetadze; Kvaratskhelia, Mikautadze
Will Spain's impressive form and defensive solidity be enough to overcome Georgia's determination and offensive capabilities?