Spain Dominates Georgia to Secure Euro 2024 Semifinal Spot
In a thrilling Euro 2024 quarterfinal match held in Stuttgart, Spain triumphed over Georgia with an impressive 4-1 victory. This win sets up a highly anticipated semifinal clash against the tournament hosts, Germany, on Friday.
The match began with an unexpected turn when Robin Le Normand's own goal handed Georgia an early lead. Yet, Spain's response was swift and decisive. Rodri, delivering a standout performance, scored the equalizer, stabilizing the team and propelling them forward. Rodri's influential play not only earned him the Player of the Match award from UEFA but also high praise from Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente. “Rodri is a computer who makes everyone else play,” de la Fuente commented, highlighting the midfielder’s crucial role.
The Spanish squad displayed their attacking prowess with a staggering 35 shots on goal. Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Dani Olmo found the back of the net, further dismantling Georgia's defense. Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal were particularly noteworthy, with Yamal continuing to break records. At just 16 years and 353 days old, Yamal became the youngest player to feature in the knockout rounds of a major tournament. Additionally, he is the first European teenager to assist in two or more goals at a major tournament since Cristiano Ronaldo at Euro 2004.
Despite the loss, Georgia’s journey to the knockout stages deserves recognition. Under the guidance of coach Willy Sagnol, the lowest-ranked team in the competition made its first appearance in a major tournament and managed to reach the knockout stage. Reflecting on their exit, Sagnol expressed a rational perspective tinged with disappointment. “We are not disappointed but feel sad because we lost. I am sure in some days we will realize what we have done and happiness will come back quickly,” he said.
Sagnol also voiced his frustration with the officiating, particularly regarding an offside call. “It was clearly offside. If [Netherlands defender] Denzel Dumfries is offside [against France], then that was 10 times more offside today,” he argued. This sentiment underscores a broader frustration with VAR technology. “VAR is a fantastic evolution, but we don't use it properly. Players and staff don't understand anymore,” Sagnol added.
Looking ahead to the semifinals, Spain faces a formidable opponent in Germany. Known for their organized and disciplined play, the German team's home advantage is not lost on the Spanish side. De la Fuente remains confident yet cautious, emphasizing the blend of experience and young talent within his squad. “With all respect to all the other national teams, we have the best team and the best players. Does that mean we're going to win it? No, but we will fight for it. We are up against a very powerful team in Germany,” he stated.
Rodri echoed his coach’s sentiment, focusing on preparation and mentality. “Germany will be strong at home, but we aren’t afraid. We must produce a good performance, but we are not here to play well or leave a good image, we are here to win with everything we have — that is the mentality of this team,” he asserted. Spain’s journey through the tournament has been flawless so far, winning all four of their matches and showing an unwavering determination to succeed.
The stage is set for a captivating semifinal encounter. With Spain's tactical finesse and Germany's robust structure, football enthusiasts worldwide are in for a compelling clash. As de la Fuente succinctly put it, the team's focus remains unwavering: “We just have to keep working like we have been, focus on our strengths, and keep improving.”