Spain Triumphs Over Georgia to Secure Euro 2024 Semifinal Showdown with Germany
Spain continues to dazzle in Euro 2024, defeating Georgia 4-1 in the quarterfinals held in Stuttgart. With this victory, Spain remains unbeaten in the tournament and sets up a much-anticipated semifinal clash against the hosts, Germany, on Friday.
Despite Spain's dominant performance, it was Georgia who struck first. An own goal by Robin Le Normand gave Georgia an early lead, momentarily silencing the Spanish contingent. However, Spain's resolve was unshakable, and their response was swift and decisive.
Rodri stepped up for Spain, scoring the equalizer and leveling the playing field. His outstanding performance earned him the title of Player of the Match by UEFA. Reflecting on the controlled demeanor of his team, Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente remarked, "We were calm at half-time, there was no anxiety and the players knew what was needed. And then we have Rodri, who is a computer who makes everyone else play.”
Spain's relentless offense saw Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Dani Olmo each contributing a goal, showcasing both experienced players and emerging talents. Among the standout players were Nico Williams and the prodigious Lamine Yamal. At just 16 years and 353 days old, Yamal not only featured in the knockout rounds of a major tournament but also became the first European teenager since Cristiano Ronaldo at Euro 2004 to assist in two or more goals.
Luis de la Fuente praised Yamal's performance but emphasized the importance of continued growth. "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," de la Fuente said, adding, "But he is 16 and he is still learning. Today is great for that and for what is to come in the immediate future."
Georgia, despite being the lowest-ranked team in the competition and making their debut in a major tournament, showed commendable spirit throughout the game. Their journey to the knockout stages is a remarkable achievement. Georgia’s coach, Willy Sagnol, while critiquing a contentious offside decision, remained reflective about their performance. "It was clearly offside. If [Netherlands defender] Denzel Dumfries is offside [against France] then that was 10 times more offside today," he said. "It is always the same problem. VAR is a fantastic evolution, but we don't use it properly."
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." Despite the loss, Sagnol expressed pride in his team's accomplishments. "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."
As Spain prepares to face Germany, de la Fuente exudes confidence while acknowledging the formidable challenge ahead. "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 said.
Rodri also voiced his determination, emphasizing the mentality of the Spanish team. "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."
With a mix of seasoned campaigners and young talents, Spain looks to extend their winning streak against the well-organized and disciplined German team. The upcoming semifinal promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both squads bringing their best to the pitch.
De la Fuente summed it up perfectly, "We just have to keep working like we have been, focus on our strengths and keep improving." As the countdown to Friday’s face-off begins, fans can expect a high-stakes match that embodies the spirit and excitement of Euro 2024.