Had Saba Lobzhanidze displayed more composure with his last-gasp chance against the Czech Republic, Georgia would have been celebrating a first-ever win at a major tournament finals as an independent nation – a result which would have given them a great chance of reaching the knockout phase. As it transpired, the Crusaders had to settle for a 1-1 draw which keeps them bottom of the group, though the lowest-ranked nation at UEFA Euro 2024 can still progress with a win.
That looks a tall order against one of the pre-tournament favourites in Portugal, but the fact that their illustrious opponents have already won the group may just work in Georgia’s favour. Willy Sagnol’s men have proved they possess a sizable goal threat having scored in all but one of their last 11 internationals, and netting first may well be crucial to their hopes as Georgia have avoided defeat the last 18 times they’ve done so (W16, D2).
After two completed rounds of group games at Euro 2024, Portugal were one of just three teams with a 100% record, seeing off Turkey and the Czech Republic. They now have the chance to complete a perfect group stage at a major tournament for the first time since the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, when they ultimately reached the semi-finals.
Failing to match that would undoubtedly be seen as a failure for this exceptionally talented group of players. Roberto Martínez has the chance to flex his squad’s muscles on the final matchday of the group by utilising the depth at his disposal, with the likes of Danilo Pereira, Matheus Nunes, João Félix and Gonçalo Ramos among those awaiting their first minutes at the tournament.
Players to watch: Georges Mikautadze has scored in ten of his last 12 matches for club and country (G12, A1), with his last four strikes having all come before half-time. After coming off the bench in the 90th minute to get the winner against the Czech Republic, Francisco Conceição will be hoping to start against Georgia, having registered five goal involvements in his last six appearances for Porto and Portugal (G2, A3).
Hot stat: Portugal haven’t drawn any of their last 28 matches (W22, L6).
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