Spain Overcomes Early Setback to Secure Semifinal Clash with Germany
In a thrilling encounter at the Euro 2024 quarterfinals in Stuttgart, Spain triumphed over Georgia with a resounding 4-1 victory. The win sets up an enticing semifinal showdown against the tournament hosts, Germany, on Friday. Despite a rocky start, Spain's blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents eventually overwhelmed a determined Georgian side that was making its first appearance in a major tournament.
Georgia stunned the spectators by taking an early lead, courtesy of an unfortunate own goal by Robin Le Normand. However, Spain's composure remained intact, epitomized by the tactical adjustments and calm demeanor orchestrated by Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente. "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,” de la Fuente remarked.
Spain's resilience was on full display as they equalized through Rodri, who was later named Player of the Match by UEFA for his outstanding performance. The pressure on Georgia began to mount as Spain relentlessly attacked, recording an astonishing 35 shots on goal. This offensive onslaught eventually bore fruit with goals from Fabián Ruiz, Nico Williams, and Dani Olmo, securing Spain’s place in the semifinals.
Lamine Yamal, a standout performer alongside Nico Williams, made history as the youngest player to feature in the knockout rounds of a major tournament at just 16 years and 353 days old. His pivotal role in two goals made him the first European teenager to accomplish such a feat since Cristiano Ronaldo at Euro 2004. De la Fuente, acknowledging his young star’s potential, stated, "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. But he is 16 and he is still learning. Today is great for that and for what is to come in the immediate future."
Georgia’s journey, while ending in defeat, was historic and commendable. The lowest-ranked team in the competition defied the odds by reaching the knockout stages. Their coach, Willy Sagnol, voiced both pride and frustration, particularly over a contentious offside decision. "It was clearly offside. If [Netherlands defender] Denzel Dumfries is offside [against France] then that was 10 times more offside today. It is always the same problem. VAR is a fantastic evolution, but we don't use it properly," Sagnol lamented. Despite the exit, his players left an indelible mark on the tournament. "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 said.
Spain's coach, de la Fuente, remains confident as his team prepares to face Germany. "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." This confidence is echoed by Rodri, who emphasized the team's winning mentality. "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."
Spain's journey to the semifinals has been nothing short of dominant, winning all four of their matches so far. The dynamic interplay between experienced campaigners and emerging talents has been a hallmark of their success. As they prepare to take on a well-organized and disciplined German team, the stage is set for an epic clash between two footballing giants.