Saturday 22 June 2024

Schick or bust

Georgia 1 - 1 Czech Republic 

Another breathtaking encounter involving Georgia. The game started at breakneck pace with both teams fully aware that this was their best chance of getting the points needed for qualification from Group F.

Chances at both ends, Georgia so comfortable sweeping forward with the ball at their feet, the Czechs more drilled and dangerous from crosses.

As the game went on, Georgia looked increasingly spent, Schick equalising their penalty opener and the Czechs took almost total control towards the end. Even the ref was getting excited, with a blaze of yellow cards towards the end, including one seemingly for "coming on as a sub" which seemed a little harsh.

The draw sees both teams still alive and so a fun conclusion to Group F.

I did a bit of thinking about Georgia's approach. Southgate fans would point to it as nativity and bad game/tournament management, to do all that trying hard stuff rather than sitting back and preserving energy. Now I know Georgia and England are occupying totally different contexts, but surely the aim for such a tournament is broadly the same for all teams. Give the best account of yourself, bring joy, have a go.

Kudos to Georgia, they've brought me far more joy than our sleeping lions.

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