'Huge motivation' – Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia reveals playing against 'idol' Cristiano Ronaldo fuelled his exploits at Euro 2024 as Georgia pulled off incredible Portugal upset

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has revealed his match-winning exploits for Georgia against Portugal at Euro 2024 were sparked by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Kvaratskhelia scored in 2-0 winHistoric result for GeorgiaFuelled by idea of beating RonaldoFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Kvaratskhelia was central to Georgia's historic 2-0 win over Portugal at Euro 2024, scoring the opening goal as his side pulled off one of the mightiest shocks in international football history. Now, he has revealed he was motivated by playing opposite Ronaldo.

AdvertisementgettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Georgia embarked on a run to the Euro 2024 knockout stages, where they were beaten by Spain. Kvaratskhelia's only goal at the tournament came against Portugal but his performances were central to their underdog story.

WHAT KVARATSKHELIA SAID

He told FIFA: “I was playing against the player that I followed and idolised since I was a young kid. Before the game I said to myself ‘this is my moment’ and I knew I needed to show that on the pitch. Playing against your idol is a huge motivation. It was incredible.

“He came to me and wished me good luck. I was over the moon and even more convinced that Georgia would win. I gave everything that evening and I helped my team to achieve a historic result.”

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?

Napoli are next in action against Empoli after the international break. In the meantime, Georgia play Ukraine and Albania in the Nations League.