Belgium Euro 2024

EURO 2024: Belgium Scrapes Through, Ukraine Bows Out

Unconvincing Belgium Advances, Ukraine's Hopes Dashed

Brussels, June 24, 2024

Belgium's Euro 2024 campaign hung precariously in the balance after a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Slovakia in their final group match, but the Red Devils ultimately managed to secure a place in the knockout stages as group runners-up.

Despite fielding a star-studded lineup, Belgium struggled to impose their authority on the game against a spirited Slovakian side. Slovakia took a shock lead through Robert Mak's strike in the 20th minute, and Belgium's struggles continued until Michy Batshuayi leveled the scores just before halftime.

The second half was equally tense, and Belgium's hopes of victory were further dented when Erik Dierckx gave Slovakia the lead once again in the 70th minute. Despite a late push, Belgium failed to find an equalizer, leaving them with just four points from their three group matches.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's hopes of reaching the knockout stages were extinguished following their goalless draw with Austria in Stuttgart. After a promising start to the tournament, Ukraine's campaign fizzled out, with the draw leaving them in third place in their group with only three points from three games.

Belgium will now face the daunting task of taking on defending champions Portugal in the round of 16, while Slovakia's impressive performance has earned them a clash against the Netherlands. Ukraine, on the other hand, will head home with their Euro 2024 campaign ending in disappointment.