'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

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.

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.

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.”

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