The dramatic conclusion of Euro 2024 Group E saw Belgium, Romania, and Slovakia advance to the knockout stages, while Ukraine agonizingly missed out despite a spirited campaign. Wednesday’s matches delivered nail-biting tension as Romania’s 1-1 draw with Slovakia in Frankfurt and Ukraine’s 0-0 stalemate against Belgium in Stuttgart resulted in all four teams finishing with four points. However, Ukraine’s heavy 3-0 defeat to Romania in their opening fixture ultimately proved costly, relegating them to the bottom of the group due to goal difference.
Belgium, pre-tournament favorites to top the group, found themselves in an unexpectedly precarious position. Their underwhelming performance throughout Group E means they now face a daunting last-16 clash against France. Domenico Tedesco’s squad, brimming with talent, is yet to find top gear in Germany, and their labored progress has sparked frustration among fans. The final whistle in Stuttgart was met with boos and jeers from Belgian supporters, with even captain Kevin De Bruyne seemingly discouraging his teammates from acknowledging the disgruntled crowd.
For Ukraine, it was a bitter pill to swallow. They become the first team in an expanded 24-team Euros format to be eliminated at the group stage with four points – a testament to the incredibly tight nature of Group E. Serhiy Rebrov’s side showcased resilience and determination throughout their campaign, culminating in a tense encounter against Belgium where they pushed for a winning goal until the dying seconds. Belgium’s goalkeeper Koen Casteels was forced into heroics, denying a Ukrainian corner that nearly crossed the line and then producing a crucial late save to thwart Georgiy Sudakov’s attempt.
Despite the disappointment on the pitch, Ukraine’s players were met with a hero’s welcome from their passionate fans at the stadium. President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged their efforts, writing on Telegram: “A strong nation is one that remains united and supports each other at all times. Both in times of defeat and in times of victory. Today we thank the Ukrainian national football team. Despite the disappointing result, you fought for our country… Glory to Ukraine!” This poignant scene underscored the emotional weight of Ukraine’s participation in Euro 2024, representing a nation still at war.
Meanwhile, in Frankfurt, Romania secured their passage to the knockout stages of a European Championship for the first time in 24 years. Falling behind to an Ondrej Duda header for Slovakia in the 24th minute, Romania responded swiftly. Ianis Hagi, son of legendary Romanian footballer Gheorghe Hagi, earned a penalty, which Razvan Marin confidently converted to level the score. The 1-1 draw was enough to see both Romania and Slovakia through to the next round.
Last Two Spots in Round of 16 Remain
With Group E decided, only two places are left to be filled in the Euro 2024 last 16. Portugal has already secured top spot in Group F, but Turkey, Czech Republic, and debutants Georgia are all vying for the remaining qualification spots. Turkey needs just a point against the Czech Republic to guarantee second place. The Czech Republic and Georgia both require victories to progress, either as group runners-up or as one of the four best third-placed teams. If both fail to win, Hungary will claim the final last-16 berth.
England also has a vested interest in the outcome of Group F. Anything other than a win for either Georgia or the Czech Republic would see England face the Netherlands in the next round. In Portugal’s final group game, coach Roberto Martinez made significant changes to his starting lineup, but Cristiano Ronaldo retained his place as he aims to surpass Luka Modric as the oldest goalscorer in European Championship history.
(AFP)
