Georgia vs Czech Republic Prediction: 7/9/2024

Georgia made a strong impression in their first-ever qualification for an international competition at Euro 2024. After a challenging start in the group stage, where they suffered a 3-1 loss to Turkey and drew 1-1 against the Czech Republic, Georgia turned things around with a 2-0 victory over Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo.

However, their journey ended in the round of 16 with a 4-1 defeat to Spain, the eventual tournament winners. Now, under the leadership of Willy Sagnol, Georgia is aiming to secure their first World Cup qualification through the upcoming Nations League.

On the other side, the Czech Republic, who reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2021 in England, was eager to qualify for the round of 16 in Euro 2024. However, they experienced setbacks, including a 2-1 loss to Portugal and a 2-1 defeat to Turkey on the final day. After this disappointing performance, the Czech team is looking to regain momentum in the Nations League ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Georgia’s squad features some standout players. Goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, a revelation during the last Euro, signed with Liverpool this summer before being loaned to Valencia. In attack, Georgia will rely on Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (34 caps, 16 goals, Napoli) and Georges Mikautadze (29 caps, 13 goals), who scored three goals during the Euros. In midfield, they have players like Giorgi Tsitaishvili (Granada, 21 caps, 1 goal) and Giorgi Kochorashvili (Levante, 12 caps). Longtime captain Jaba Kankava (101 caps, 10 goals) has retired.

The Czech Republic, while lacking some individual stars, has a well-balanced squad capable of making an impact across all positions. Key players include Tomas Soucek (72 caps, 13 goals, West Ham) and Patrik Schick (40 caps, 20 goals). Defensively, Vladimir Coufal (45 caps, West Ham) leads the team, while Alex Kral (Barcelona, 39 caps) controls the midfield.

Adam Hlozek (34 caps, 2 goals, Hoffenheim) has underperformed in recent matches, and the team is also dealing with injuries to important players like Jakub Vleck and David Jurasek (11 caps, Hoffenheim).

 

Prediction

Georgia has struggled against the Czech Republic historically, with only a few wins in their last 16 competitive encounters. However, the Czech Republic comes into this match in excellent form, having won eight of their last 10 games. This momentum could give them the edge in a closely contested match.

Prediction: Georgia 1-2 Czech Republic