Group E of the 2024 European Championship (EURO 2024) capped off dramatically, with Romania claiming the highest spot forward of Belgium. Each groups completed with 4 factors and had the identical aim distinction, however Romania scored two extra objectives than Belgium (5 vs 3). Slovakia and Ukraine additionally had 4 factors to their identify, however as a result of former’s increased aim distinction (0 vs -2), they completed in third place. Ukraine, heartbroken, crashed out regardless of amassing the identical variety of factors as the opposite three groups.
Romania Prime EURO 2024 Group E After 1-1 Draw With Slovakia
Romania, who bagged a formidable 3-0 victory over Ukraine on Matchday 1, wanted a draw to get out of Group E. They began brightly and created their first goalscoring alternative 11 minutes in. Proper-back Andrei Ratiu charged into the world and let fly with a right-footed effort. Slovakian goalkeeper Martin Dubravka made an excellent cease to maintain it goalless.
Having withstood the early stress, Slovakia struck within the twenty fourth minute, courtesy of an excellent early cross from Juraj Kucka and a superb headed end from Ondrej Duda. Duda timed his leap to perfection to make contact with Kucka’s cross and direct it into the bottom-right nook of Romania’s aim.
Slovakia’s lead, nevertheless, lasted just for 13 minutes. Left-back David Hancko conceded a penalty, permitting Razvan Marin to transform from the penalty spot. The Empoli attacking midfielder dispatched a thunderous penalty, discovering the top-left nook of Dubravka’s aim. Each groups created just a few alternatives within the second 45 however couldn’t get the profitable aim.
Unconvincing Belgium Held By Spirited Ukraine
After a disastrous opening-day defeat (1-0) in opposition to Slovakia, Belgium discovered their taking pictures boots on Matchday 2, claiming a 2-0 victory over Romania. Attributable to their constructive aim distinction, Belgium knew {that a} draw in opposition to Ukraine would take them to the EURO 2024 Spherical of 16. Nevertheless, given their abilities, Belgium absolutely meant to take most factors on Matchday 3.
They created their first clear-cut goalscoring alternative within the seventh minute, with Kevin De Bruyne taking part in a fantastic through-ball for Romelu Lukaku. The Chelsea striker solely had the goalkeeper to beat, however nonetheless didn’t get the job accomplished. Within the 74th minute, Ukraine had a sensational probability to place their noses in entrance. Artem Dovbyk latched on to an extended throw into the field, set himself up, and had a go at aim from just a few yards out. Fortunately for Belgium, Wout Faes made an excellent block to disclaim him.
Within the second minute of added time, Georgiy Sudakov went on an excellent, defense-piercing run earlier than firing at aim. Sadly for Ukraine, his strike was straight at Belgium’s goalkeeper Koen Casteels, permitting him to make an easy save. Ukraine did attempt to break just a few extra instances earlier than the ultimate whistle, however luck didn’t break their manner.
It finally ended goalless at MHPArena, sealing a runners-up end for Belgium. As a consequence, they’ll face match favorites France within the Spherical of 16.
