Euro 2024: Belgium Secures Spot in Last 16 with Unconvincing Draw
Belgium advances to Euro 2024 knockout stages with 0-0 draw against Ukraine, who exit with 4 points. Belgium's Wout Faes shines in defense, while Kevin De Bruyne wins man of the match. Belgium faces France next, despite underwhelming performance.
Belgium advanced to the Euro 2024 knockout stages with a goalless draw against Ukraine, who were eliminated from the competition. The match in Stuttgart saw both teams create few opportunities, with Ukraine failing to pose a consistent offensive threat until the final moments.
Wout Faes was outstanding in defense for Belgium, making two crucial blocks to deny Artem Dovbyk. Ruslan Malinovskyi provided an intermittent outlet for Ukraine, nearly curling a corner past Koen Casteels. Kevin De Bruyne's free kick curled just wide, while Romelu Lukaku's close-range shot was saved by Anatoliy Trubin.
Belgium advanced despite a lackluster performance, with France awaiting them in the last 16. Ukraine, who finished bottom of their group despite earning four points, were dealt a harsh blow. The match remained tight until the final 20 minutes, when Ukraine pushed for a winner, with Timothy Castagne blocking a goal-bound attempt from Malinovskyi.
Georgiy Sudakov squandered a chance to test Casteels with a meek shot, and Ukraine struggled to establish dominance until the second half. De Bruyne's unpredictability and midfield presence couldn't lead Belgium to victory. The Belgian supporters, who had marched to the stadium and chanted throughout, grew frustrated with the lackluster performance, jeering at full time.
The Ukrainian players collapsed to the ground at the final whistle, then approached their fans to applause. Belgium's celebrations were muted, acknowledging their underwhelming display. The result saw Ukraine become the first team to exit the Euros with four points, a harsh outcome given their efforts.
Kelvin De Bruyne won man of the match.
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