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The opening match of Group E in the 2026 World Championship qualifiers will see Georgia host Turkey in Tbilisi on September 4, 2025. With both nations eager to establish early momentum, the fixture brings together two teams on very different but equally ambitious trajectories.
Georgia enters the campaign on the back of their historic debut at Euro 2024, where they captured the imagination of fans with bold performances and tactical maturity under head coach Willy Sagnol. Captain Guram Kashia remains the cornerstone of their defense, while a new generation of attacking talent—led by Georges Mikautadze, who has been linked with Sunderland and Eintracht Frankfurt—adds unpredictability and dynamism. The Crusaders also showcased their attacking intent with a commanding 8–0 friendly win over Thailand, fueling optimism that they can compete on the global stage.
Turkey’s Momentum Under Mourinho
Turkey, on the other hand, arrives in Georgia brimming with confidence after a strong Euro 2024 campaign that carried them all the way to the quarterfinals before bowing out to the Netherlands. Midfield anchor Hakan Çalhanoğlu and partner Salih Özcan remain vital in orchestrating play, offering both creativity and defensive bite.
The team is led by José Mourinho, whose move into international management has drawn global attention. His tenure has been characterized by tactical pragmatism, flashes of attacking flair, and occasional controversy—hallmarks of his storied career. While speculation continues about a potential MLS move after the World Cup, Mourinho’s immediate focus is on guiding Turkey to qualification, beginning with what he views as a crucial test in Tbilisi.
Tactical Battle in Tbilisi
The contest is expected to be a tactical chess match. Georgia, compact and disciplined in defense, will aim to strike on the counterattack, with Mikautadze exploiting spaces behind Turkey’s high defensive line. Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, a talisman for the Georgian side, will be central to their attacking hopes, capable of unlocking defenses with individual brilliance.
Turkey, by contrast, will seek to dominate possession and apply sustained pressure. Young talents Arda Güler and Kerem Aktürkoğlu provide width and creativity, while veteran striker Cenk Tosun and captain Álvaro Morata’s former teammate Burak Yılmaz offer finishing power. For Mourinho, the balance between attack and defensive solidity from full-backs Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella will be key to containing Georgia’s counter-punching threat.
The Boris Paichadze Dinamo Arena—often an intimidating venue for visitors—will be a cauldron of noise, with Georgia’s passionate supporters hoping their team can deliver another landmark result.
Prediction
Two competing narratives surround this match. Optimists in Georgia believe the momentum from Euro 2024, coupled with home advantage, could inspire another upset. A bold prediction tips Georgia for a 2–1 victory, with Mikautadze striking early and Kvaratskhelia adding a second before Çalhanoğlu pulls one back from a set piece.
Statistical trends, however, point to goals flowing regardless of the outcome. Georgia’s last 14 home fixtures have featured over 2.5 goals in 10 of them, while 14 of Turkey’s last 18 away games have also crossed that threshold. Many analysts therefore lean toward a Turkish win, with their greater depth and tournament experience proving decisive.
Prediction: Georgia 1–2 Turkey
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