EURO 2024: Georgia vs Portugal

Georgia, despite only securing one point so far, has impressed with their positive and aggressive play in the tournament. Led by goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili and star player Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Georgia remains undaunted and focused on their performance against group leaders Portugal.

Portugal, who have already secured the top spot in the group, are likely to rest key players and give opportunities to emerging talent. The Portuguese squad still boasts significant depth and quality, with a predicted lineup featuring José Sá, Nélson Semedo, Gonçalo Inácio, Diogo Dalot, Rúben Neves, Matheus Nunes, Diogo Jota, Gonçalo Ramos, and João Félix.

Georgia, the lowest-ranked team in Euro 2024, will look to make history by advancing to the knockout stages in their first major tournament appearance. They are expected to field an unchanged lineup from the team that drew with the Czech Republic, with a predicted lineup of Mamardashvili, Kverkvelia, Kashia, Dvali, Kakabadze, Kochorashvili, Mekvabishvili, Chakvetadze, Tsitaishvili, Mikautadze, and Kvaratskhelia.

While Portugal's rotation may provide Georgia with an opportunity, the Portuguese squad's depth and quality should allow them to grind out a narrow win. The Opta supercomputer predicts a 75.8% chance of victory for Portugal.

Key Insights

• Portugal are the big favourites, with a 75.8% chance of victory
• Cristiano Ronaldo could make his 50th appearance at a major international tournament if he plays
• Georgia are aiming for their first ever major tournament win
• Portugal are deemed the fifth favourites to win the tournament in 10.9% of simulations
• Georgia are given a 10.9% chance of making it to the knockouts

The Bad Tackle

I await the match.