A Convincing Victory
Spain's journey in the Euro 2024 tournament continues to impress, with a recent 4-1 triumph over Georgia in the quarterfinals, held in Stuttgart. This dominant performance has set up a highly anticipated semifinal clash against the hosts, Germany, on Friday.
Georgia initially shocked spectators by taking the lead courtesy of an unfortunate own goal by Spain's Robin Le Normand. Nevertheless, it didn't take long for Spain to restore parity. Rodri, named Player of the Match by UEFA, stepped up and equalized for Spain, demonstrating his influence on the pitch. Reflecting on the team's performance, Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente said, "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 offensive prowess was evident throughout the match, recording an astounding 35 shots on goal. Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Dani Olmo all found the back of the net, sealing Spain's victory and securing their place in the semifinals. De la Fuente praised the team's resilience and agility but emphasized the need for further refinement, particularly from young talents like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, who were standout performers. "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 about Yamal, who at 16 years and 353 days, became the youngest player to feature in the knockout rounds of a major tournament.
Yamal's contribution did not go unnoticed, making history as the first European teenager to assist in two or more goals at a major tournament since Cristiano Ronaldo's remarkable performance in Euro 2004. "But 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 added. This blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging stars appears to give Spain a balanced approach heading into their next challenge.
A Historic Milestone for Georgia
For Georgia, this was a historic moment, being their first appearance in a major tournament. Despite being the lowest-ranked team in the competition, they managed to reach the knockout stages, a commendable achievement under the stewardship of their coach Willy Sagnol. Reflecting on the outcome of the match, Sagnol expressed his disappointment over a controversial offside call, "It was clearly offside. If [Netherlands defender] Denzel Dumfries is offside [against France] then that was 10 times more offside today." However, he remained optimistic about VAR's potential benefit, "VAR is a fantastic evolution, but we don't use it properly. 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 chose to celebrate Georgia's journey. "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 stated. Georgia's spirited performance throughout the tournament has certainly earned them respect and recognition on the international stage.
The Road Ahead for Spain
With an undefeated streak in the tournament so far, Spain looks ahead to what promises to be a highly competitive match against Germany. De la Fuente acknowledges the strength of their next opponents but remains confident in his squad's abilities, "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."
Emphasizing the team's focus and preparation, De la Fuente added, "We just have to keep working like we have been, focus on our strengths and keep improving." Indeed, the Spanish squad is aware of the formidable challenge that awaits them. Rodri echoed this sentiment, "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 Friday approaches, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter between two footballing giants, each with their eyes firmly set on clinching a spot in the final. Spain's blend of youth and experience will be put to the test against the disciplined and well-organized German side, making it a match that fans around the world eagerly await.