Georgia is gearing up for a high-stakes showdown against Spain in today's last-16 match at Euro 2024. The strategy? Defend deep and launch counter-attacks with lightning speed. It's going to be an intense game, no doubt about it!
Now, let's talk about the lineup. Unfortunately, Anzor Mekvabishvili won't be joining the action. He's suspended after picking up a second booking during that historic win over Portugal. But here's the thing - he was already on the bench for that match. So, Watford's Giorgi Chakvetadze is set to keep his spot in the midfield.
Defense-wise, coach Willy Sagnol made some interesting moves in the previous game. He swapped in Giorgi Gvelesiani and Luka Lochoshvili for Solomon Kvirkvelia and Giorgi Tsitaishvili. But for this crucial encounter, it's expected that Sagnol will revert to his trusted starters.
The formation is likely to be a solid 5-3-2 again. And why not? With a formidable strike duo like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Euro's top scorer Georges Mikautadze, Georgia has the firepower to spark some serious attacks on the break. Keep an eye on these guys; they're a dynamic pair that can change the game in a heartbeat.
And let's not forget about the man guarding the net. Valencia's Giorgi Mamardashvili has been nothing short of stellar throughout the tournament. His reputation has only grown, and he'll be a key player between the sticks today.
Here's the predicted Georgia XI:
- Mamardashvili
- Kakabadze
- Dvali
- Kashia
- Kverkvelia
- Tsitaishvili
- Kochorashvili
- Kiteishvili
- Chakvetadze
- Kvaratskhelia
- Mikautadze
Suspended: Mekvabishvili
The stage is set at Cologne Stadium, with the match kicking off at 8 pm BST on Sunday, June 30, 2024. Make sure you're tuned in; it's airing on ITV1. This is one game you won't want to miss!
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So, what do you think? Georgia has a tough task ahead, but with their strategic gameplay and key players ready to shine, anything is possible. It's Euro 2024, and every match is a story waiting to unfold.
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