STUTTGART, Germany (AFP) — Belgium qualified for the last 16 of Euro 2024 on Wednesday, after a 0-0 draw with Ukraine who exited the tournament despite all four teams in Group E finishing level on four points.
Romania took the top spot ahead of Belgium after scoring more goals in the group following their 1-1 draw with Slovakia, who also went through as one of the four best third-place sides.
Belgium supporters reacted furiously at the final whistle in Stuttgart, with Captain Kevin De Bruyne appearing to tell his teammates not to go over to applaud them as the whistles and jeers grew louder.
“We are a little bit surprised,” said Belgium Coach Domenico Tedesco.
“If the fans are whistling we have to accept; we can’t be disappointed. We are qualified — which is the most important thing today.”
They will play France in the next round and have landed themselves on the tougher side of the draw which also features hosts Germany, Spain, and Portugal.
“We won’t be favourites against France but we know during a tournament you have to play the best,” said De Bruyne.
War-torn Ukraine’s brave run came to an agonising end as they became the first team since the tournament increased to 24 teams not to progress with four points.
“A strong nation remains united and supports each other at all times — both in times of defeat and in times of victory,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr wrote on Telegram.
“Today we thank the Ukrainian national football team. Despite the disappointing result, you fought for our country.”
It was the first time at the European Championship that all four teams in the same group had gone into the final round of games locked on the same number of points.