Ukraine’s hope of qualifying for the round of 16 at Euro 2024 faded on Wednesday after a goalless draw with Belgium in its final group stage match.
It was a poor quality match, with Ukraine unable to find the goal that would have given them the pass and Belgium falling.
The best early chance fell to Lukaku, who was pounced on by Kevin De Bruyne’s signature defense-splitting pass in the seventh minute, but like so many times in this tournament, the striker missed his shot.
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Ukraine also had its own chances, and Roman Yaremchuk will regret not having been more selfish when played and, instead of shooting, opted to square up with Dovbyk, but his pass was too hard and flew harmlessly over the goal.
All in all, Belgium’s second place opens up a more difficult path for them in the knockout phase. They will face France in the round of 16 on Monday, placing themselves on the side of the draw that many see as a challenge.
Romania will face either the Netherlands or Slovenia in the round of 16 on Tuesday.
Slovakia will face Spain or England on Sunday.
