Both Georgia and the Czech Republic are set to face off on Saturday in a crucial Group F match at Euro 2024. With neither team securing points in their opening games, the encounter in Hamburg is a must-win for both sides to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
Georgia, making their debut at the European Championship, put up a spirited fight against Turkey in their first match. Despite losing 3-1, Georges Mikautadze made history by scoring Georgia’s maiden goal at a major tournament. Willy Sagnol’s team, which had the most shots on goal by a debutant since Austria in 2008, showed promise but were undone by defensive lapses.
The Czech Republic, meanwhile, suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Portugal. Lukas Provod’s opener was nullified by an unfortunate own goal from Robin Hranac, and a late strike by Francisco Conceicao sealed their fate. Despite their efforts, Ivan Hasek’s men completed fewer passes than any other team in the first round and managed only eight touches in the opposition box.
Team captain Patrik Schick and West Ham United’s Tomas Soucek will be pivotal for the Czech Republic as they aim to avoid an early exit. For Georgia, Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Mikautadze will be key figures, especially given Kvaratskhelia’s impressive stats in the first game, including the joint-most dribbles and duels contested.
Both teams will need to bring their best to Volksparkstadion. The Czech Republic, having lost seven out of their last 12 group matches since 2008, are looking to change their fortunes, while Georgia aims to continue making history by securing their first points at the Euros.
Prediction: Georgia 1-1 Czech Republic
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