Spain Triumphs Over Georgia, Sets Up Semifinal Clash with Germany
Spain secured a resounding 4-1 victory against Georgia in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals in Stuttgart, setting the stage for a highly anticipated semifinal against tournament hosts Germany.
The match began with an unexpected twist as Robin Le Normand's own goal gave Georgia an early lead. Despite the setback, Spain remained composed under pressure. "We were calm at half-time, there was no anxiety, and the players knew what was needed," Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente reflected. "And then we have Rodri, who is a computer who makes everyone else play."
Sparked into action, Spain soon found the equalizer courtesy of Rodri, who was later named Player of the Match by UEFA. Reflecting on his performance, de la Fuente commended, "He managed all the emotions and all the moments perfectly, which is a big help for everyone."
Spain's dominance in the game was underscored by their staggering 35 shots on goal. Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Dani Olmo contributed to the scoreboard, ensuring a comfortable victory. Nico Williams, alongside the youngster Lamine Yamal, were standout performers for Spain. Yamal, a 16-year-old prodigy, made history as the youngest player to feature in the knockout rounds of a major tournament. He also became the first European teenager to assist in two or more goals at a major tournament since Cristiano Ronaldo at Euro 2004.
De la Fuente, commenting on Yamal's potential, said, "He played really well, but I think he can do much better. He likes to take risks, but maybe there are moments when a bit more calm is needed. But he is 16 and he is still learning. Today is great for that and for what is to come in the immediate future."
For Georgia, a team making its first appearance in a major tournament, the quarterfinal exit was a bittersweet end. Despite being the lowest-ranked team in the competition, Georgia reached the knockout stages, a commendable achievement. However, coach Willy Sagnol expressed his frustrations with the officiating and the use of VAR. "It was clearly offside. If [Netherlands defender] Denzel Dumfries is offside [against France] then that was 10 times more offside today," he remarked. Sagnol continued, "Players and staff don't understand anymore. VAR is a great thing, but maybe [we should] wait until we know how to use it properly."
Though disappointed, Sagnol acknowledged the efforts of his squad, saying, "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."
Looking ahead to the semifinals, Spain will face a formidable challenge against Germany. Recognizing the strength of their opponents, de la Fuente stated, "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."
The Spanish team, a blend of experienced campaigners and promising young talents, remains confident in their abilities. De la Fuente emphasized, "We just have to keep working like we have been, focus on our strengths and keep improving."
Rodri, echoing the team's sentiments, asserted, "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."
As Spain prepares to face Germany on Friday, the stage is set for an enthralling encounter between two football powerhouses. With unwavering determination and a squad brimming with talent, Spain aims to continue their winning streak in the tournament, edging closer to Euro 2024 glory.