Nico Williams stole the spotlight on Sunday night as Spain handed tournament debutants Georgia a reality check with a 4-1 comeback victory in the Euro 2024 round of 16.
Spain have now secured a highly anticipated quarter-final tie against Euro 2024 hosts Germany after overcoming an early scare to defeat Georgia at Cologne Stadium.
Despite Spain’s heavy pressure in the opening stages, Georgia stunned the crowd by taking an unexpected lead 18 minutes into the match. Spain defender Robin Le Normand inadvertently turned Otar Kakabadze’s curling cross into his own net, capping off a swift counter-attack and silencing the Spanish supporters.
Georgia’s confidence surged following the goal, but Spain’s relentless pressure eventually broke through.
Manchester City’s Rodri equalised with a precise shot into the bottom corner, outmaneuvering Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who had an otherwise stellar performance.
Nico Williams then delivered a standout display, setting up Rodri’s equaliser before Lamine Yamal found Fabian Ruiz to give Spain the lead.
Spain are a PROBLEM đź‘€ pic.twitter.com/v7VCcxYfFG
— GOAL (@goal) June 30, 2024
Ruiz later returned the favour, setting up Williams for Spain’s third goal. Dani Olmo added the final touch, ensuring a comprehensive 4-1 victory for La Roja.
Spain will now face hosts Germany in the quarter-finals, with fans eagerly awaiting the remaining four spots in the last eight. La Roja will be hoping to maintain their form as they remain the only team to have won all matches at the competition.
