Georgia vs Scotland
European Championship Qualifying
Thursday
16th November 2023
Boris Paichadze Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the European Championship Qualifying fixture between Georgia and Scotland.
Georgia vs Scotland: Preview
Georgia form analysis
Against more formidable opponents, Georgia’s recent run of European Cup Qualification matches has shown both promise and glaring weaknesses. They started impressively, coming from behind to beat Cyprus 2-1 away thanks to goals from Mikautadze and Davitashvili after initially going behind to a penalty. However, problems surfaced in their next game with an expected 0-2 home loss to a dominant Scotland side, unable to cope with the visitor’s slick play. Georgia were then torn apart 1-7 at home by rampant Spain, going four behind by halftime before a consolation from Chakvetadze and three more Spanish goals piled misery.
There was little improvement next game, losing 1-2 away to Norway after more passive defending despite a late Zivzivadze strike. Most recently they got back on track, comfortably dispatching Cyprus 4-0 at home thanks to goals from Kiteishvili, Kvaratskhelia, Shengelia and a Mikautadze penalty. Overall, Georgia have shown endeavour and scoring threat in patches but clear limitations in quality compared to stronger nations.
Scotland form analysis
Scotland’s recent run of European Championship Qualifying games has showcased signs of progress under Steve Clarke but limitations remain compared to elite teams. They started impressively, comfortably dispatching Spain 2-0 at home thanks to two clinical McTominay strikes. Building momentum, Scotland then dramatically beat Norway 2-1 away – equalizing late through Dykes before McLean’s last gasp winner. Scotland continued their solid form by beating Georgia 2-0 at home. Courtesy of goals from McGregor and McTominay in an assured performance.
Expectations rose following yet another masterful performance in a 0-3 victory away against Cyprus, courtesy of goals from McTominay, Porteous, and McGinn. But they had a harsh reality check in their most recent game—a humiliating 0–2 home loss to Spain—as they were unable to stop the visitors’ deft passing and movement. Overall, Scotland have looked organized under Clarke and boast talents like McGinn, Gilmour and McTominay but a clear gulf in class remains compared to the top teams.
