Euro 2024 qualification: Georgia secures their spot in their first major tournament thanks to Nika Kvekveskiri’s performance, while Ukraine also qualifies following a win against Iceland.

Georgia’s players were in a state of pure jubilation as they celebrated their historic victory in the UEFA EURO 2024 qualifying play-off final against Greece. This win marks the first time in Georgia’s history that they have qualified for a major international tournament. The match took place in Tbilisi on March 26, 2024.

Under the guidance of manager Willy Sagnol, Georgia secured their place in the play-offs thanks to their impressive performance in the UEFA Nations League. In the semi-finals, they defeated Luxembourg with a convincing 2-0 victory. This set the stage for a crucial showdown against the formidable Euro 2004 champions, Greece.

Despite facing adversity when Giorgi Loria was shown a red card just before half-time, Georgia managed to hold on and force a penalty shoot-out after a goalless draw in extra time. The tension was palpable as Anastasios Bakasetas and Giorgos Giakoumakis missed their penalties, paving the way for Nika Kvekveskiri to etch his name in history by firing Georgia into Euro 2024.

The scenes of celebration that erupted in Tbilisi were a testament to the magnitude of this achievement. Georgia will now proudly represent their nation as the only debutant team in Germany this summer. They have been placed in Group F, alongside Turkey, Czech Republic, and Portugal, setting the stage for an exciting tournament debut.

In another thrilling qualifying match, Chelsea’s Mykhailo Mudryk played a starring role for Ukraine as they overcame a potential stumbling block against Iceland. Albert Gudmundsson gave Iceland the lead in the 30th minute, but Ukraine fought back in the second half. Midfielder Viktor Tsyhankov equalized, and the momentum shifted in favor of the Blue and Yellows.

With just six minutes remaining, Mudryk sealed the victory for Ukraine with a sensational strike from outside the area, finding the far bottom corner of the net. The 2-1 win secured Ukraine’s place in their fourth consecutive European Championships. They have been drawn into Group E, where they will face Belgium, Slovakia, and Romania.

Both Georgia and Ukraine have showcased their determination and skill on the road to Euro 2024. As they prepare to compete against some of Europe’s finest teams, the stage is set for an unforgettable tournament filled with passion, drama, and the pursuit of glory.