Italy took a priceless point during their visit to Ukraine – 0:0 and qualified for Euro 2024 in Germany. The winner of the trophy from four years ago will have a chance to defend his title. The Group C clash of the qualifiers was crucial for both teams, but the symbolic hosts Ukraine needed a must-win three points at the Leverkusen Stadium. The tie was quite enough for Luciano Spalletti’s players, who finish in the 2nd position in the final group standings, although with an equal asset of 14 points each with the Ukrainians, but with better indicators in direct matches.
Ukraine started the match strongly, but Gianluigi Donnarumma dealt with shots from Tsygankov and Sudakov. Gradually, the Italians leveled the game and created a lot of chances in front of Trubin, however, the tie remained until the break. After the restart, Italy continued their strong performance, but again no goal was scored. In the closing minutes, Ukraine tried to get a winning goal, but without success. Thus, Italy finished in second position with 14 points, and England remained in first position with 20 points. Gareth Southgate’s players drew 1:1 during their visit to the Republic of North Macedonia. Bardi gave the Macedonians the lead in the first half, but substitute Harry Kane equalized.
Slovenia qualified for the finals of a European Championship for the first time since 2000 after beating Kazakhstan 2-1 in Ljubljana to secure second place in Group H of the Euro 2024 qualifiers. In the 21st minute, Benyamin Sheshko gave the home team the lead from a penalty. Ramazan Orazov equalized in the 48th minute. Four minutes before the end, Benjamin Verbić brought deserved joy to Slovenia with a beautiful performance.
In another group match, Northern Ireland beat Denmark 2-0. The hosts took the lead in the 60th minute through Isaac Price. In the 81st minute, the result was doubled after an accurate shot by Dion Charles. Northern Ireland thus finished in 5th place in the group with 9 points earned. Denmark remained in the 1st position with 22 points.
The Czech team defeated Moldova 3:0 in a direct clash for the second place in Group E. Thus, the Czechs officially qualified for the finals in Germany next year. David Douderda, Tomasz Hori and Tomasz Soucek scored the goals.
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