Kvaratskhelia Shines Amid Fifa Turmoil

Uefa presented some of its crown jewels through European champions PSG, but the turmoil engulfing Fifa is still the main topic of discussion. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia knows a thing or two about sitting Fifa tournaments out and proved yet again that he will show up whatever the stage.

Background

This was an opportune night to show off some of Uefa’s crown jewels. The Uefa hierarchy and guests had enjoyed their pre-match lunch inside Hangar 7, a vast exhibition hall next to Salzburg airport that houses an array of cars and craft from Red Bull’s various endeavours.

Key Details

Kvaratskhelia, with a familiar exhibition of assured footwork and rip-roaring finishing, found Marco Bizot’s top corner. The main topic of conversation on the menu brought a more bitter taste, as the fallout from Gianni Infantino’s collapsed Fifa Forward Enterprise scheme will cast its own eclipse over football until an agreeable resolution has been reached.

What It Means

The Georgian's performance was a reminder of why, through the muck and grubbiness that has thrown the sport into turmoil, we are all really here. The past fortnight’s events have highlighted the need for a resolution to the current crisis, and Kvaratskhelia's display was a welcome distraction from the ongoing turmoil.