Georgia stuns Portugal in Euro 2024 group stage upset

Underdogs secure historic qualification to knockout round

Pre-game chat with Sagnol inspires improbable victory

GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany (AP) — Georgia pulled off the biggest upset of Euro 2024 so far, stunning heavily favored Portugal 2-0 on Sunday to secure a historic qualification to the knockout round.

In a match where Georgia had just 27% possession, they kept the Portuguese at bay and took their chances with clinical efficiency. Willy Sagnol's team inflicted a surprise defeat on the Portuguese, who were considered one of the favorites to win the tournament.

It is the first time Georgia has ever reached the last 16 of a major tournament. Their victory was all the more remarkable given that they had never even qualified for a European Championship before. Sagnol, the former France international, has been credited with transforming the Georgian team since taking over as coach in 2022.

In the pre-game chat, Sagnol had told his players to believe in themselves and not be afraid to take risks. His words clearly inspired the team, who played with a freedom and confidence that belied their underdog status.

Georgia's victory is a major upset and a huge boost for the tournament. It shows that anything is possible in football and that even the smallest teams can achieve great things with the right belief and preparation.