Match Prediction: Georgia vs Czechia UEFA European Championship 2024
Unless you're from these respective countries, it is unlikely that this game will be at the top of your agenda. These two teams won't care about that, though. For Georgia, they are entering this tournament for the first time as an independent nation, and whatever they achieve from this tournament should be considered a bonus.
For Czechia, it has been a while since they left a mark on a major tournament, and they will view this game as a must-win if they are to make it to the latter stages.
How did they qualify?
If you kept a close eye on the qualifying campaign, you may be confused about how Georgia qualified for this tournament, considering they finished fourth in their group with only eight points. Amazingly, they were able to qualify via the Nations League, where they first defeated Luxembourg and, more surprisingly, Greece in the playoffs. A team that looked like they might have qualified automatically at one stage.
Czechia were incredibly competitive and would have been delighted to finish four points ahead of pre-group favourites Poland. Albania topped the group, but this was only due to goal difference.
Team Analysis
Czechia are used to sitting back and being very patient. This dynamic makes this game particularly intriguing, as they would be expected to dominate against Georgia. If they start well, this could result in a positive performance, but their opponents should gain more confidence if they don't.
We're hoping to see the Georgians play with a refreshing freedom. This is easier said than done, but qualifying for this tournament is an achievement, and there is nothing worse than dying wandering. We all know they don't have the most in-depth squad in the European Championships, but they possess some top talent, and we are fascinated to see how they go in this tournament.
Players to watch
Georgia will be coming into this tournament with bags of enthusiasm. You will only be familiar with most of the names in their squad if you're a hardcore football fan. One man, though, has made quite an impact on European football.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: The Napoli man played a huge role in winning the league for Napoli during the 22/23 season. He is his country's most influential player, and the nation's hopes will rest heavily on his shoulders.
- Adam Hložek: This 21-year-old winger has already represented his country over 30 times. Last season, he played a considerable role in Bayer Leverkusen's incredible unbeaten run in the Bundesliga. It is the battle of the wingers, but which player will have the last laugh?
Prediction
Georgia will likely fancy their chances in this one. Their opponents don't have great attacking flair, and they hope to cause an upset here. Considering we view it as an upset, we are still backing Czechia for the win, but only just. The first quarter of the football game will be crucial. Georgia are an inexperienced side, so they will need to get through this period and keep their composure.