EURO 2024

Belgium Qualifies for Last 16, Ukraine Misses Out

June 26, 2024

Belgium navigated a secure passage to the closing 16 of Euro 2024 notwithstanding flattering to mislead in a goalless draw with Ukraine – who have been knocked out of the competition – on the MHPArena in Stuttgart.

This match was critical for both teams as it determined their fate in the tournament. Belgium needed a draw to ensure progression, while Ukraine needed a win to keep their hopes alive.

Historical Context

Belgium has a rich history in the European Championships. The team’s performances have varied over the years, with notable highs and lows. Belgium reached the finals in 1980 but lost to West Germany. In recent years, they have been considered one of the top teams in Europe, consistently reaching the knockout stages.

Belgium vs Ukraine: Match Analysis

Pre-match Expectations and Build-up

Before the match, expectations were high. Belgium, with its star-studded lineup, was expected to dominate, while Ukraine was seen as the underdog with a fighting spirit.

Tactical Approaches by Both Teams

Belgium adopted an offensive strategy, focusing on ball possession and creating scoring opportunities. Ukraine, on the other hand, focused on a solid defensive setup, looking to counter-attack when possible.

First-half Performance Analysis

In the first half, Belgium dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Ukraine’s defense held firm, frustrating the Belgian attackers.

Second-half Performance Analysis

The second half saw more urgency from both teams. Belgium continued to press, while Ukraine looked for opportunities on the break. Despite the increased intensity, neither team could break the deadlock.

Belgium vs Ukraine: Key Players

Romelu Lukaku’s Impact and Performance

Romelu Lukaku, Belgium’s star striker, had a challenging game. Despite his efforts, he was unable to find the back of the net, continuing his goalless run in the tournament.

Kevin De Bruyne’s Role in the Team

Kevin De Bruyne was instrumental in Belgium’s midfield, orchestrating attacks and creating opportunities for his teammates. His vision and passing were key to Belgium’s strategy.

Koen Casteels’ Crucial Saves

Koen Casteels was a standout performer, making several crucial saves to keep Ukraine at bay. His quick reflexes and decisive actions were vital in securing the draw.

Contributions of Other Key Players

Leandro Trossard and Jeremy Doku showed flashes of brilliance but were unable to make a significant impact. Yannick Carrasco was also active, forcing a challenging save from Ukraine’s goalkeeper.

Team Strategies

Belgium’s Offensive Strategies

Belgium focused on maintaining possession and using their technical skills to break down Ukraine’s defense. However, they lacked the final touch to convert their dominance into goals.

Ukraine’s Defensive Strategies

Ukraine’s strategy was to absorb pressure and hit Belgium on the counter-attack. Their disciplined defensive approach kept Belgium’s attackers at bay for most of the game.

Analysis of Substitutions and Their Impact

Both teams made strategic substitutions in an attempt to change the game’s dynamics. However, the changes had little effect on the scoreline.

Belgium vs Ukraine: Match Highlights

Key Moments and Turning Points

The match had several key moments, including close chances for both teams and critical saves by the goalkeepers.

Malinovskyi’s Near-Goal from a Corner

Ruslan Malinovskyi’s corner almost resulted in a goal, but Koen Casteels made a crucial save to keep the scores level.

Sudakov’s Solo Run and Missed Opportunity

Georgiy Sudakov’s solo run in the dying moments of the match was a highlight, but his weak shot was easily saved by Casteels, missing Ukraine’s final golden opportunity.