Euro 2024: Belgium Advances To Knockout Stage After Goalless Draw Against Ukraine

Belgium advanced to the Euro 2024 knockout stages after a goalless draw with Ukraine on Wednesday, setting up a last-16 clash with France. Despite several chances, Domenico Tedesco's team couldn't capitalise, leading to Ukraine's elimination on goal difference as all Group E teams ended with equal points.

Romania topped the group due to goals scored after a 1-1 draw with Slovakia, while Belgium secured second place thanks to a superior goal difference. Romelu Lukaku had an early chance from Kevin De Bruyne's pass but failed to trouble Anatolii Trubin.

The Red Devils dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances. De Bruyne's inventive near-post free-kick was their closest effort. Ukraine threatened on the counter and nearly scored when Roman Yaremchuk's cross just missed Artem Dovbyk in the six-yard box.

In the second half, De Bruyne and Lukaku combined again, but Lukaku's weak shot was easily saved. Yannick Carrasco's introduction added energy, and his powerful shot was parried by Trubin as Belgium searched for a winner.

Ukraine almost snatched victory late on when Ruslan Malinovskyi's ambitious corner nearly caught Koen Casteels off guard at his near post. However, neither side could find a decisive goal, leaving Belgium to face France in Dusseldorf on Monday.

Lukaku has now taken the joint-most shots (10) and has the most shots on target (7) at Euro 2024 but is yet to score. "It's coming though, right?" tweeted Opta Analyst.

Romelu Lukaku has now had the joint-most shots of any player at Euro 2024 (10) and the most shots on target (7), but is yet to register his first goal of the tournament.

It's coming though, right?..#UKRBEL #Euro2024 pic.twitter.com/j95SFfnHto

— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) June 26, 2024

Lack of Clinical Edge Costs Belgium

Belgium can only blame themselves for not converting promising opportunities into goals. They managed just four shots on target from ten attempts and underperformed their expected goals (xG) by 0.28. Lukaku’s struggles continued as he failed to score despite having two shots on target.

The match highlighted Belgium’s lack of clinical finishing, which they must address before facing France. The upcoming match against the two-time Euros champions will be a significant test for Tedesco’s side.

The Red Devils will need to improve their attacking efficiency if they hope to progress further in the tournament. The clash with France promises to be a challenging encounter that will test Belgium’s resolve and tactical acumen.