In a tension-filled Group C qualifier, Italy clinched their place in Euro 2024 after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Ukraine on Monday. The European champions secured the second spot in the group, finishing level on 14 points with Ukraine but holding a superior head-to-head record. While Italy concluded six points behind group leaders England, who had already sealed their qualification with a 3-1 victory over Italy at Wembley in October, Ukraine still has the chance to secure a spot through the playoffs.
Despite never having defeated Italy, Ukraine displayed resilience throughout the match, with strong claims for a penalty in stoppage time following Bryan Cristante’s challenge on Mykhailo Mudryk. The referee, however, waved off the appeals. Ukraine’s fate will be determined in the playoffs scheduled for March, with the draw set to take place on Thursday in Nyon.
Reflecting on the match, Italy coach Luciano Spalletti acknowledged Ukraine’s strength, stating, “Ukraine showed that they are an equipped team and they gave us a hard time.” Spalletti praised his team’s performance, noting the physical nature of the match in the latter stages.
The clash at BayArena in Leverkusen saw a lively start, with both goalkeepers—Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Ukraine’s Anatoliy Trubin—delivering standout performances. Italy, making their eighth consecutive appearance at the Euros, dominated possession and created more chances, but Ukraine remained composed in their defensive efforts.
Italy’s Federico Chiesa and Giovanni Di Lorenzo had early chances, but Trubin’s saves kept Ukraine in the game. The second half saw Italy’s continued dominance, countered by Ukraine’s increased probing. Despite Italy’s chances, Donnarumma’s saves denied Ukraine a breakthrough.
Expressing satisfaction, Donnarumma stated, “We are very happy. We are where we deserve to be with all the difficulties we had, but thanks to the new coach and staff, we are back.” Under Spalletti, who took charge in August, Italy has secured three wins, two draws, and one loss. The European Championship, slated to be held in Germany, awaits the Italian squad’s next challenge.
