Early on March 27th, Beijing time, Georgia stunned former European Championship winner Greece in a penalty shootout in the 2024 Euro Qualifying Play-offs, securing their historic qualification for the major tournament.
In the Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena in Tbilisi, Georgia, the team made history. This summer, the country of roughly 3.7 million people will participate in a major tournament for the first time ever.
The match against the 2004 Euro champions ended goalless after both regular time and extra time, with Georgia prevailing 4-2 in the subsequent penalty shootout.
Nika Kvekveskiri and Giorgi Mammadov emerged as heroes in this crucial encounter. Kvekveskiri converted the decisive spot-kick, while goalkeeper Mammadov saved the attempt from Greek captain Tasos Bakasetas.
Ranked 77th in the FIFA world rankings, Georgia was considered the underdog against Greece, who sat at 49th. In terms of big-stage experience, the Georgian national team couldn’t match their opponents. Thus, the victory of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and his teammates sent shockwaves through European football.
At Euro 2024, Georgia will be in Group F alongside Turkey, Portugal, and the Czech Republic. Their opening group match will be against Turkey on June 18th.
In another play-off, Ukraine secured their spot in Euro 2024 with a 2-1 win over Iceland at the Tarczyński Stadium (Poland). Mykhailo Mudryk was the hero for Ukraine, scoring the winning goal. In Euro 2024, Ukraine will face Belgium, Romania, and Slovakia in Group E.
The final ticket to Euro 2024 went to Poland, who defeated Wales 5-4 in a penalty shootout. Poland will be in Group D with the Netherlands, Austria, and France.