Georgia vs. Portugal: Preview, Prediction & Betting Tips

We expect this one to be a competitive encounter, largely because Portugal are unlikely to be at full strength given they've already got the group sewn up while the Georgians have everything to play for. The game dynamic is likely to play out as Georgia would like it to, with Portugal dominating the ball and Georgia hitting them on the break; Georgia have averaged 41% of the ball in their first two games against weaker opposition than Portugal.

Georgia's finishing has been of a moderate standard so far, scoring two goals from a combined xG of 3.1, which doesn't bode well for this game as they'll have to be clinical to topple the Portuguese. Ultimately, Portugal have too much match-winning quality even with a weakened lineup so we're backing them to take three points from what should be a good watch. Georgia 0-2 Portugal.

The Euro 2024 group stage is reaching its climax, and Wednesday's encounter between Georgia and Portugal in Group F is set to be a fascinating contest. Georgia, despite being bottom of the group, have been one of the more entertaining teams to watch in this tournament, while Portugal have already secured top spot with a game to spare. This match promises to be intriguing, with Georgia needing a win to stand a chance of progressing to the last 16, and Portugal looking to maintain their unbeaten run.

• Date: 24/06/2024
• Kick-off time: 20:00
• Location: Merkur Spiel-Arena, Düsseldorf

Georgia's journey in Euro 2024 has been nothing short of exhilarating. Under the management of Willy Sagnol, the team have shown a commendable spirit and tenacity. Their opening game against Turkey was a thrilling encounter that saw them succumb to a narrow defeat, but their performance won them many admirers. The match was a roller-coaster of emotions, with Georgia showing both attacking flair and defensive resilience.

In their second game against the Czech Republic, Georgia managed to secure a draw. This result, while not ideal, was a testament to their fighting spirit and ability to compete at this level. The Georgians have displayed a fast-paced brand of football that has made their games must-watch events. Their fans have every reason to be proud, as the team has given an excellent account of themselves, proving that they are not out of place on this stage.

Georgia's attacking approach has been both their strength and their weakness. While they have scored goals and entertained, they have also left themselves vulnerable at the back. This gung-ho style has endeared them to neutrals but has also meant that results have not always gone their way. As they head into their final group game, Georgia know that only a win will suffice to keep their hopes of progressing alive. With their goal difference in a favourable position, three points should be enough to see them through as one of the best third-placed teams.

Portugal, on the other hand, have had a successful start to their Euro 2024 campaign. Under the guidance of Roberto Martínez, they have secured top spot in Group F with six points from their two games. Their journey began with a somewhat shaky performance against the Czech Republic, where they managed to scrape a win. This was followed by a much-improved display against Turkey, where they won convincingly and demonstrated why they are considered one of the tournament favourites.

Despite their status as one of the top teams, Portugal have not yet hit their peak form. They have shown glimpses of their potential, but there is a sense that they still have several gears to move through before reaching their best level. This match against Georgia provides an opportunity for some squad rotation and for players who have not seen much action to stake their claim. With top spot already secured, there are questions about how seriously Portugal will take this game, but their depth in quality means they are still a formidable opponent.

These two sides have faced each other only once before, in a friendly back in 2008, where Portugal emerged as 2-0 winners. Much has changed since then, and this competitive fixture will be an entirely different challenge. Georgia, with their attacking mindset, will look to take the game to Portugal. They have nothing to lose and everything to gain, which could make them dangerous opponents.

Portugal, with their array of talent, will likely adopt a more measured approach. Roberto Martínez may use this game to experiment with his line-up, but he will still expect his team to perform. The Portuguese defence, marshalled by experienced players, will need to be on guard against Georgia's forward forays. In midfield, Portugal's control and creativity will be key to breaking down the Georgian resistance.

For Georgia, the likes of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze will be crucial. Kvaratskhelia, in particular, has been a standout performer, with his dribbling and attacking prowess causing problems for opposition defences. Chakvetadze's creativity in midfield will be essential in unlocking the Portuguese defence.

Portugal, boasting a wealth of talent, have several key players to watch. Cristiano Ronaldo remains their talisman, even if he may be rested for this game. In his absence, players like João Félix and Diogo Kota could be looked upon to provide the attacking impetus.

For Georgia, this match is of paramount importance. A win could see them progress to the knockout stages as one of the best third-placed teams. Their goal difference is in their favour, and they will be determined to make the most of this opportunity. The players will be motivated to give their best, knowing that their tournament future hangs in the balance.

For Portugal, while the match may not carry the same level of importance, it is still an opportunity to build momentum. Finishing the group stage with a perfect record will boost their confidence heading into the knockout rounds, while also giving Martínez a chance to assess his squad depth and make tactical adjustments if necessary.

This game will be aired live to all U.K. viewers on ITV1 and on the ITVX website.

Georgia Team News:

Georgia aren't likely to make many changes to the XI that started the draw with the Czech Republic. If there is a change, that could come up top with Watford's Giorgi Chakvetadze potentially taking the place of Zuriko Davitashvili.

Several Georgians are at risk of missing the round of 16 (should Georgia make it) if they are booked, with Giorgi Gvelesiani, Guram Kashia, Giorgi Kochorashvili, Solomon Kvirkvelia and Anzor Mekvabishvili all one booking away from a suspension.

Portugal Team News:

Portugal, conversely, will likely ring the changes here to preserve the fitness of their star men. Rúben Dias, Pepe, Vitinha, Bernardo Silva and Cristiano Ronaldo are all prime candidates to drop out of the starting lineup, with the likes of Gonçalo Inácio, João Neves, João Félix and Diogo Jota all knocking on the door for a start.

Rafael Leão is unavailable through suspension while João Palhinha and Francisco Conceição are both one booking away from missing the last 16.

Georgia's form on the whole is solid as they enter this game with three wins, one draw and one defeat from their last five games. Their opening game of Euro 2024 came against Turkey and produced one of the games of the tournament, with back-and-forth, end-to-end action that ended in a 3-1 win for the Turks. Georgia will have been mightily disappointed not to have taken more from that game, with Georges Mikautadze having missed a fine opportunity to make it 2-1 to Georgia at the end of the first half before an intense onslaught at the back end of the game saw several near misses and some last ditch defending from Turkey keep the scoreline at 2-1.

In their second game against the Czech Republic, they produced another valiant performance in a 1-1 draw where both sides had enough chances to win the game. Georges Mikautadze put Georgia ahead on the stroke of half-time with a penalty, and despite the fact Georgia spent most of the game clinging on (the Czechs equalised on 59 minutes) they could have sealed all three points with a huge chance that was blazed over the bar in the dying seconds.

Portugal's form reads very positive as they enter this game with four wins and one loss in their last five outings. Portugal's Euro 2024 campaign kicked off with a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Czech Republic that came courtesy of a significant degree of fortune. Portugal looked largely disjointed throughout the came and despite piling the pressure on their Eastern European opponents they struggled to create many openings. The Czechs took the lead with a fine goal after 62 minutes and while Portugal turned the game on its head through an own goal and a last-gasp winner from Francisco Conceição, they were the beneficiaries of a notable degree of fortune in both of the goals.

Portugal followed that game up with a much more convincing performance in their second outing as they took on Turkey, a game they comfortably won 3-0. Goals from Bernardo Silva and Bruno Fernandes on top of a Turkey own goal sealed a convincing win in a game that was notably one-sided, with the Portuguese enjoying 57% of the ball while registering 12 shots.

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