Georgia winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia believes his side are “more motivated” than Portugal to win their final group-stage match.
Roberto Martinez’s Portuguese side have already qualified as winners of Group F.
A win would realistically be needed for Georgia to progress. If the Czech Republic and Georgia both win, they will advance in second or third.
“Psychologically and motivation-wise, we are more motivated than Portugal because Portugal is already through to the round of 16,” Kvaratskhelia said.
Playing at their first European Championships, Georgia have one point to show from two promising performances.
Georgia boss Willy Sagnol is pleased with his side’s efforts so far.
“If, before the competition, we would have been told maybe on your third match you will still have the possibility to qualify, I think we would all have signed these documents immediately,” he said.
Ronaldo to start for Portugal
Portugal secured their place in the last 16 in style with a commanding 3-0 win over Turkey.
They will face the third-ranked team from Group A, B or C in Frankfurt on 1 July.
There is an opportunity to rest players but Martinez said he will start 39-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, who could become the oldest player to score at the Euros.
“I can tell you that the captain will be in the starting XI, he played one preparation game, he had a very good season and he has played a lot of minutes,” the Portugal boss said.
“It’s important to maintain his competitive standard because starting and stopping isn’t any good for you as a player.”
Martinez’s side are 68 places above Georgia in the Fifa rankings, which is the biggest gap at the tournament.
He said going for the win “is important to maintain the integrity of the Euros”, adding: “It’s a very important game because this result will be crucial to determine who qualifies and who doesn’t.”
Source:BBC
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