Debutants Georgia finally ran out of luck in a 4-1 defeat against Spain but will leave Euro 2024 with nothing but pride after exceeding expectations in Germany with a last-16 berth.
Led by Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Georgia already impressed in their opening 3-1 defeat against Turkey where they almost levelled at 2-2 in stoppage time before being beaten for good.
A 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic and they then defied the odds by beating Portugal 2-0 to get out of the group.
The team coached by Frenchman Willy Sagnol took a shock lead against Spain from an own goal by Robin Le Normand, but Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Nico Williams and Dani Olmo turned around matters for the classy Iberians.
"We had no chance, especially in the second half. Of course you are a little sad in the dressing room," Georgia captain Guram Kashia admitted to German broadcasters ARD.
But overall, pride prevailed, as Kashia added: "We came here as a team no one expected anything from. We brought Georgian football to Europe.
"Our country is proud, that's the best thing you can achieve. It was a very special moment. Football brings energy and joy to the country.
"I am very proud of the lads. The next generation will be thinking about this for a very long time."
Kvaratskhelia almost scored from the centre circle against Spain, and Georges Mikautadze is for now joint tournament top scorer with three goals.
Midfielder Giorgi Kochorashvili told EURO2024.com: "We have to continue improving our play. The Georgia team is like a family. We will come back stronger to bring more success for our country."
Spain's Williams, who scored the deciding third, was also full of praise for Georgia.
"I want to congratulate Georgia. They were terrific rivals, I was impressed with them and I hope that they do well in the future," he said.
