Khvicha Kvaratskhelia experienced a night he will never forget as he propelled Georgia into the Euro 2024 knockout rounds by defeating Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal.
Georgia, the lowest-ranked team at the tournament and debuting in the European Championship, wasn’t expected to advance past the group stage. Defying all odds, they delivered a remarkable 2-0 victory in Group F, with Kvaratskhelia scoring early and Georges Mikautadze adding a second-half penalty.
The final whistle ignited euphoric celebrations on the field and among fans at Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen. In Tbilisi, fireworks lit up the sky as fans celebrated in the streets.
Kvaratskhelia, reflecting on the game, described it as the best day in the lives of Georgians, expressing immense joy and pride in making history by defeating Portugal. He emphasized the team’s unity and belief as key to their success.
Georgia’s assistant manager, David Webb, described the atmosphere post-match as “immense,” highlighting the calm and focused approach the team maintained before the game.
Webb, known for his motivational skills, had inspired the players with stories of smaller nations like Wales and Iceland achieving great feats in past championships.
Ronaldo’s encouragement added to the significance of the moment. Videos showed the team’s jubilation in the locker room, with Kvaratskhelia wearing Ronaldo’s shirt.
Despite his disappointment, Ronaldo had given his shirt to an emotional Kvaratskhelia after the match. A 2013 photo of a young Kvaratskhelia with Ronaldo in Tbilisi resurfaced, underscoring the personal significance of the encounter.
Kvaratskhelia shared the photo on Instagram and recounted how Ronaldo’s pre-match good wishes fueled his motivation and belief in their potential victory.
After the game, Kvaratskhelia consoled Ronaldo before joining his teammates in celebration. Despite the loss, Portugal still advanced as group winners.
Kvaratskhelia posted a photo of Ronaldo’s shirt alongside his Man of the Match award on Instagram, capturing the moment with the word “Dreams.” He reflected on how this victory with his national team surpassed his achievement of winning the Serie A title with Napoli, attributing the success to teamwork.
Looking ahead, Georgia will face Spain in the round of 16, relying on Kvaratskhelia’s leadership once again. Webb expressed confidence and determination, stating that the team would approach the next match with belief and no fear, aiming to continue their historic journey.
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