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Realistically, needing only a draw to secure the top spot in Euro 2024 qualifying Group A, Spain will play Georgia at Estadio Jose Zorrilla in Valladolid for their last preliminary match on Sunday.
In their previous game, La Roja comfortably won 3-1 against Cyprus, while Georgia faced a tough 2-2 draw against Scotland, where they were twice equalized in a tense match.
Despite both Spain and Scotland already securing a spot in Euro 2024 before this month's Group A matches began, the focus remains on confirming the section winner and determining which teams will enter Pot 1 for the group-stage draw.
Spain made significant strides towards achieving these goals in their last match against Cyprus. With a convincing 3-1 victory, initiated by Barcelona's rising star Lamine Yamal scoring just five minutes into the game, and followed by goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Joselu within the first 30 minutes, they maintained a commanding lead. Although Kostas Pileas scored for Cyprus 15 minutes before the end, Spain avoided a significant setback and secured their position at the top of Group A.
With their upcoming opponents' efforts, Spain holds a two-point advantage over Scotland, who will face Norway on Sunday. A win this weekend would guarantee Spain the top spot, but even a draw seems likely to suffice, given their superior goal difference (+18) compared to Scotland's (+9), with both teams tied on all head-to-head categories.
The journey towards reclaiming past glories began for the hosts with their triumph in the Nations League during the summer. Now aiming for an eighth consecutive victory across all competitions, they face opponents who have little at stake, having already secured their place as one of the 12 playoff representatives.
In their recent clash against Scotland, Georgia was spearheaded by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Napoli, who breached Clarke's defense twice, first by striking near the post and then skillfully finding the far corner.
Despite Kvaratskhelia's efforts, Scotland managed to counter with goals by Scott McTominay and a late equalizer from Lawrence Shankland. McTominay's strong remarks post-game labeled the opposing team coached by Willy Sagnol as a "disgrace" for their behavior during a match filled with altercations, fouls, and bookings. Although Scotland secured the top spot, Georgia still faces obstacles.
The fourth-placed Crusaders have secured their playoff spot due to their status as the highest-ranked team in the third tier of the Nations League. This opportunity offers hope for the former Soviet nation to participate in a major tournament for the first time. Their remarkable ascent from League D to League B in the Nations League since 2018 indicates their rapid progress.
However, Georgia arrives in Valladolid with a record of three losses in their last four away matches, including defeats against Norway and Scotland in their recent Group A games. Their encounter with Spain in Tbilisi resulted in a resounding 7-1 victory for the 2008 and 2012 continental champions, presenting challenges for Sagnol's side.
The main news ahead of Spain's victory over Cyprus highlighted the absence of Rodri from Manchester City due to training discomfort. It's uncertain if he'll return for the game against Georgia. Similarly, Jose Gaya, the Valencia left-back, dealt with a knee injury before joining the team. Oyarzabal, who scored a goal, suffered a hamstring injury and will head back to Real Sociedad earlier than planned.
Nico Williams, the sought-after Athletic Bilbao talent, might step in for Oyarzabal. Meanwhile, Unai Simon lost the goalkeeping spot to David Raya from Arsenal, sparking questions about potential long-term changes.
Georgia faced setbacks against Scotland as Shengelia and Lochoshvili had to leave the game in quick succession. There were debates about Lochoshvili's delay in getting up, perceived by Scotland as a tactic. Shengelia's shoulder injury suggests he might not play soon, with Azarovi ready to step in.
Kvaratskhelia's brace against Scotland made him Georgia's fourth highest scorer with 14 goals in 27 games. He aims to surpass Shota Arveladze's record with 13 more goals.
