"Paused his celebrations to go meet his Idol" - Fans react as video of interaction between Kvaratskhelia and Ronaldo after Euro 2024 clash surfaces
Fans made an interesting observation following an interaction between Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Cristiano Ronaldo after Georgia defeated Portugal as both sides reached the knockout stages at Euro 2024. The minnows claimed a shock win over the Selecao on Wednesday, June 26, in the final group game in their first-ever appearance at the European Championship.
Portugal made eight changes to their team for the Georgia match. Captain Ronaldo, Joao Palhinha, and Diogo Costa were the only ones to keep their places from the previous match against Turkiye. Their opponents were a Georgia side that had claimed one point from their opening two games, losing to Turkiye before holding Czechia to a draw.
Georgia hadn't faced Portugal since a friendly in 2008 and were looking for a first win in a major international tournament. Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is one of the biggest names in their football history, and he showed all of his qualities against Portugal.
Kvaratskhelia idolizes Cristiano Ronaldo despite having never played with or against the 39-year-old in his professional career. The winger scored and had an impressive game as the Crusaders won 2-0 to reach the last 16, while his idol struggled.
Following the final whistle, it was bedlam on the pitch as the Georgia players and officials ran in different directions in celebration. The Napoli man, who like his idol had been taken off, ran first to share a moment with the Al-Nassr forward. The pair shared an embrace and some words before Kvaratskhelia returned to his celebration.
Fans were impressed by the scene and took to X to share their thoughts on what happened there.
A fan praised him for showing respect to the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.
"Kvaratskhelia showing respect to a legend like Cristiano Ronaldo is really cool. Moments like these remind us why we love football"
Another fan shared their thoughts that anyone would have acted the same in his shoes.
"We would’ve all done the same"
A fan took the opportunity to praise the influence of the legendary forward.
"Ronaldo's influence in the football world is unmatched"
Another fan expressed their envy at Kvaratskhelia.
"Kvaratskhelia living dreams of millions out there🥺❤️"
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia helped Georgia reach the last 16, where they will face Spain who demolished them 7-1 in their most recent meeting. Meanwhile, Portugal will face Slovenia in their last 16 tie.
Incredible Kvaratskhelia, Ronaldo fact emerges after Portugal-Georgia meeting
An incredible story linking Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Cristiano Ronaldo has emerged after their respective countries faced off in their Euro 2024 meeting on Wednesday. The Napoli man triumphed over his idol, scoring the opening goal as Georgia claimed a 2-0 win.
Following the game, images surfaced of the then-Real Madrid man accompanying some of his teammates to Tbilisi. They were invited to a new football academy in 2013. A 12-year-old Kvaratskhelia was part of the youngsters at the academy, and he was pictured alongside Ronaldo.
The Georgia international has moved from Dinamo Tbilisi via a number of clubs before arriving at Napoli, where his stocks have risen greatly. He has been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain this summer as the French champions look to replace Kylian Mbappe.