In the upcoming Euro 2024 qualification match, Spain is determined to bounce back from their recent defeat as they face Georgia on Friday night. Both teams are eager to secure a victory in Group A and improve their standings.
Spain’s last qualification fixture in March ended in a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Scotland. Similarly, Georgia also suffered a 2-0 loss to Scotland in their previous Group A match in June.
Georgia currently holds the second position in Group A, accumulating four points from three matches, while Spain is fourth with three points after playing only twice due to their participation in the UEFA Nations League.
Willy Sagnol’s side began their Euro 2024 qualification campaign with a 1-1 draw against Norway in March and followed it up with a 2-1 win over Cyprus in June.
However, their momentum was halted by a 2-0 defeat to Scotland. On the other hand, despite never qualifying for a European Championship, Georgia came close to securing a spot in Euro 2020 but lost to North Macedonia in the playoffs final.
When it comes to head-to-head encounters, Spain has dominated with just one loss in their previous five games against Georgia, which occurred in a friendly match in June 2016.
Spain started their Group A campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Norway in March but suffered a shocking 2-0 defeat to Scotland in their subsequent match.
Since then, Luis de la Fuente’s side has not participated in any qualifying action, focusing on their successful journey in the UEFA Nations League that saw them defeat Italy in the semi-finals and claim the trophy after a penalty-shootout win against Croatia.
Although Spain currently sits fourth in Group A, trailing Scotland by nine points, they have two games in hand. They are still strong contenders to qualify for the finals of the European Championship next summer.
In terms of recent performances, Spain reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020 but fell short in the 2022 World Cup, exiting the competition in the last-16 stage.
Team News:
Georgia’s attack will be led by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who has netted 10 goals for his country in 22 appearances. Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia is expected to start as the goalkeeper, while experienced centre-back Guram Kashia will captain the team. Notable absentees from the squad include Otar Kakabadze, Luka Lochoshvili, and Nika Kvekveskiri.
For Spain, Barcelona’s rising talent, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, could make his debut, becoming the youngest-ever Spanish player.
Captain Alvaro Morata is set to spearhead the attack, supported by Marco Asensio, Gavi, and Dani Olmo. Dani Carvajal and Alejandro Balde are likely to take up the full-back positions, with Fabian Ruiz partnering Rodri in central midfield.
Expected Lineups:
Georgia:
- Mamardashvili
- Kvirkvelia
- Kashia
- Dvali
- Gocholeishvili
- Chakvetadze
- Aburjania
- Kiteishvili
- Azarovi
- Mikautadze
- Kvaratskhelia
Spain:
- Simon
- Carvajal
- Le Normand
- Laporte
- Balde
- Rodri
- Ruiz
- Asensio
- Gavi
- Olmo
- Morata
Prediction:
Despite the potential challenges posed by Georgia, Spain’s overall talent and abilities should see them secure a 2-0 victory. The visitors are expected to overcome the obstacles and claim the crucial three points in this encounter.
