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Spain vs Georgia preview: Expect hat-trick hero to trouble Georgia once more

Spain vs Georgia preview: Expect hat-trick hero to trouble Georgia once more

Spain started their European Championship campaign impressively by defeating Croatia, Italy, and Albania in Group B without conceding a goal.

After solid performances against Turkey and Czech Republic, Georgia pulled off a major upset by beating Portugal 2-0 to advance to the knockout stages.

Team news

Luis de la Fuente rested 10 starters in the 1-0 victory over Albania, as Spain had already secured the top spot in their group. Aymeric Laporte was the only player who remained in the starting lineup.

The rested players are now set to return fresh and ready to rejoin Spain's 4-3-3 formation, with Rodri back in contention after serving a one-match suspension.

Anzor Mekvabishvili will be unavailable for Georgia due to suspension, while Giorgi Chakvetadze from Watford is expected to retain his spot in midfield.

The stats

Spain is the only team in Euro 2024 to win all of their group stage matches and keep three clean sheets.

Georgia scored in the first half of all three of their Group F games.

During the qualifying stage for this tournament, Spain defeated Georgia 7-1 away and 3-1 at home.

Prediction

Georgia are performing well at Euro 2024. However, coach Willy Sagnol will be keeping a close eye on the matches they played against Spain during the qualifiers.
Georgia are performing well at Euro 2024. However, coach Willy Sagnol will be keeping a close eye on the matches they played against Spain during the qualifiers.

Spain has a perfect record in the tournament so far and will be facing Georgia in the Round of 16, a match they would have eagerly anticipated before the competition began.

Although Spain may have tougher challenges ahead, including a potential quarter-final clash with hosts Germany and a semi-final against the likes of Portugal, France, or Belgium, they have already shown their ability by defeating strong teams like Croatia and Italy.

While Georgia has displayed confidence and potential throughout the tournament, Spain is expected to have the edge in quality.

Alvaro Morata, who scored a hat-trick in the 7-1 win over Georgia in September, could play a pivotal role in the match on Sunday.