Millions of Georgian fans celebrate victory over Portugal at Euro 2024

Georgian fans flooded the streets to celebrate a historic achievement at Euro 2024, as their national team defeated Portugal 2-0 and secured a spot in the Round of 16.

June 27, 2024, will be remembered as a monumental day in Georgian football history. From a team whose most notable achievement was a friendly win against Spain in 2016, Georgia has made history by advancing past the Euro group stage for the first time. Remarkably, they achieved this by defeating the formidable Portugal, the 2016 champions.

With goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze, Georgia secured a 2-0 victory over Portugal, claiming third place in Group F. This accomplishment not only propelled Georgia into the knockout stage as one of the four best third-placed teams but also established them as a formidable contender in this Euro tournament.

After the historic victory, Reuters reported that over a million people in Tbilisi took to the streets to celebrate. The celebration included fans parading with the Georgian flag, fireworks displays, and gatherings at Freedom Square to rejoice near the statue of St. George in the center. The festive atmosphere was everywhere, creating a lively and proud scene for the Georgian people.

The joy of the people in Tbilisi was indescribable. Fans celebrated wildly, Georgian flags flying across central streets, and people shaking hands and hugging each other, celebrating the victory at 2 a.m. local time. The chants of “Sakartvelo,” the Georgian name for their country, echoed everywhere, creating an overwhelmingly jubilant and proud atmosphere.

To reach Euro 2024, Georgia had to overcome a dramatic playoff series, culminating in a penalty shootout victory over Greece. Despite being considered the weakest team in Group F and one of the weakest in the tournament, Georgia pulled off a major surprise by advancing. This achievement has brought immense joy to over two million Georgians at home and abroad.

Georgia will continue their historic journey with a Round of 16 match against Spain at 8 P.m. on Jule 30. Spain, which holds the record for the biggest win against Georgia, having defeated them 7-1 in September 2023 during the Euro 2024 qualifiers, will be a tough challenge. However, it also presents an opportunity for Georgia to showcase their progress and fighting spirit.