Spain Marches On to Semifinals with Dominant Win Over Georgia
In a commanding display of footballing prowess, Spain triumphed over Georgia 4-1 in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals held in Stuttgart, setting up a highly-anticipated clash with tournament hosts Germany in the semifinals on Friday. The victory underscores Spain's undefeated run in the tournament, having won all four of their matches so far.
Despite the lopsided scoreline, the match began with a surprising twist as Georgia took an early lead courtesy of an own goal by Spain’s Robin Le Normand. However, Spain's resilience and quality quickly came to the fore. Rodri, named UEFA's Player of the Match, scored the equalizer, showcasing his critical role in Spain's midfield.
"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," remarked Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente. His confidence in Rodri’s abilities speaks volumes about the player’s importance to the team.
The floodgates opened for Spain following Rodri's goal. Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Dani Olmo all found the back of the net, solidifying the team's dominance. The victory was not just about the goals but the overall performance, with Spain recording an impressive 35 shots on goal.
Youth and experience combined seamlessly for Spain, particularly with the standout performances of Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal. Yamal, who is only 16 years and 353 days old, made history as the youngest player to feature in the knockout rounds of a major tournament. "He is 16 and he is still learning. Today is great for that and for what is to come in the immediate future," de la Fuente stated, emphasizing the teenager's potential.
Yamal’s impact did not go unnoticed as he became the first European teenager to assist in two or more goals at a major tournament since Cristiano Ronaldo at Euro 2004. "He likes to take risks, but maybe there are moments when a bit more calm is needed," observed de la Fuente, highlighting both the promise and the room for growth in Yamal's game.
For Georgia, reaching the quarterfinals was a monumental achievement. As the lowest-ranked team in the competition, their journey to the knockout stages marked their first appearance in a major tournament. Coach Willy Sagnol expressed mixed emotions following the defeat. "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," he said, capturing the pride and the heartbreak of the Georgian squad.
Sagnol also pointed out a contentious moment that he felt swung the match unfairly. "It was clearly offside. If [Netherlands defender] Denzel Dumfries is offside [against France] then that was 10 times more offside today," he argued, critiquing the application of VAR. Despite the loss, Georgia's journey in Euro 2024 will be remembered as a breakthrough moment for the nation.
Looking ahead, Spain's semifinal clash with Germany promises to be a tough test. The German team is known for their organization and discipline, attributes that have made them formidable opponents on home soil. However, the Spanish squad, a blend of seasoned veterans and youthful talents, is undeterred.
"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," said de la Fuente, acknowledging the challenge ahead while exuding confidence in his squad's abilities.
Rodri, reflecting the team's unwavering focus, added, "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 for the showdown with Germany, the stakes could hardly be higher. With a perfect record and a roster brimming with talent, La Roja is geared up to add another chapter to their storied history in European football. The semifinal clash is set to be a thriller, showcasing the best of what both teams have to offer.