Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the European U21 Championship group stage match.
Georgia U21 currently sit third in their group, which aligns with expectations ahead of the tournament. However, they remain firmly in contention for a place in the quarter-finals — a victory over Portugal U21 would see them through.
Georgia U21
No other third-placed side at the tournament has performed as impressively as Georgia U21. They opened with a 2:1 win over Poland U21, followed by a narrow 3:2 defeat to France U21. The key moments in that match came late on. With 15 minutes remaining, they were trailing 0:1, but managed to turn the game around in the space of ten minutes. France U21 then snatched the win in stoppage time. A goal from Thierno Barry was initially ruled out for offside, but following a lengthy VAR check, it was finally awarded in the 12th minute of added time — despite only six minutes having been officially indicated.
Portugal U21
Portugal U21 are yet to concede at this tournament. They began with a goalless draw against France U21, then followed it up with a commanding 5:0 win over Poland U21 just two days later. Against France U21, they created more chances — registering 16 shots and four clear-cut opportunities — but were kept at bay by a resolute French defence. Poland U21 offered far less resistance: although they faced only nine shots on target, the squad was ruthless in front of goal, converting eight of them.
Georgia U21 vs Portugal U21 Prediction
Despite topping the group, Portugal U21 are not unbeatable. Two years ago, at the previous Euro U21 Championship, Georgia U21 defeated them 2:0 in Tbilisi, courtesy of first-half goals from Giorgi Gagua and Saba Sazonov. That match was played without key players such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Zuriko Davitashvili, underlining the squad’s depth. Georgia U21 have the quality to compete and possibly even win, though a narrow Portugal U21 victory would not be a surprise either. A handicap bet favouring Georgia U21 looks the most sensible option.
