The UEFA Euro 2024 Group F clash between Georgia and Portugal is set to take place on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at the Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
Match Preview
Portugal, who have already secured their place in the knockout stage, will face a determined Georgia side fighting for survival in the tournament.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter as Georgia looks to pull off an upset against the 2016 European champions.
Georgia, making their debut in a major international tournament, have impressed with their positive and aggressive play in Euro 2024.
Despite only securing one point so far, the team led by coach Willy Sagnol has shown resilience and determination.
Key players for Georgia include goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, midfielder Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and striker Georges Mikautadze.
Portugal, on the other hand, have been one of the standout teams in the competition.
The 2016 champions have already booked their place in the knockouts as the Group F table-toppers.
Coach Roberto Martínez has a wealth of talent at his disposal, including the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva, and defenders Pepe and Rúben Dias.
Georgia have had a mixed start to their Euro 2024 campaign, suffering a 3-1 loss to Turkey in their opener before drawing 1-1 with the Czech Republic.
Mikautadze has been the standout performer for Georgia, scoring in both games.
Portugal, meanwhile, have been in fine form, securing a narrow 2-1 win over the Czech Republic and a comfortable 3-0 victory against Turkey.
Ronaldo is yet to open his account but has provided a selfless assist to Fernandes.
Head-to-Head
The upcoming match will mark only the second meeting between Georgia and Portugal.
In their previous encounter, a pre-Euro 2008 friendly, Portugal emerged victorious with a 2-0 win.
Ronaldo and Pepe were part of the starting lineup for Portugal in that match.
Prediction
Despite Georgia’s spirited performances, Portugal are the overwhelming favorites to win the match.
The 2016 champions’ superior squad depth and attacking prowess should see them eke out a narrow victory.
However, Georgia will be determined to cause an upset and secure their first-ever major tournament win. The match is expected to be a close affair, with Portugal likely to win by a narrow margin.
Betting Tips
1. Portugal to win: Portugal’s superior quality and experience make them the favorites to win the match.
2. Over 2.5 goals: Both teams have shown attacking intent in the tournament, and the match could see a high-scoring affair.
3. At least one goal to be scored in the first half: Portugal’s quick starts and Georgia’s determination to get on the scoresheet early could lead to an early goal.
4. Cristiano Ronaldo to score or assist: The legendary striker is yet to find his scoring touch, but he is always a threat and could make the difference for Portugal.
