By Kadijat Akinlowo
Spain set up A blockbuster Quarter-final tie with Euro 2024 host Germany by Surviving an early scare to ease past Georgia
In their debut major tournament appearance, Georgia faced intense pressure from Spain at the start but surprised spectators at Cologne Stadium by taking an unexpected lead 18 minutes into the game.
During a swift counter-attack, Spain’s Robin le Normand inadvertently redirected Otar Kakabadze’s cross into his team’s net, leaving the audience in disbelief.
Witnessing the goal, the substitutes in warm-up rushed to Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the leader of Georgia’s jubilant celebration in the corner.
Although Georgia gained confidence from the goal, Spain’s persistence paid off as Rodri from Manchester City scored a powerful shot into the bottom corner, overcoming goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who had an exceptional performance throughout the match.