Ukraine's Heorhiy Sudakov, bottom, is dejected after missing a chance during a Group E match between Ukraine and Belgium at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Stuttgart, Germany, Wednesday, June 26, 2024. The match ended in a 0-0 draw. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
STUTTGART: The Ukraine national team, hungry for success at Euro 2024 after more than two years of grinding war with Russia, were left lamenting their elimination after a 0-0 draw with Belgium, but there was still pride in their effort in Germany.
Ukraine coach Serhiy Rebrov said he could not fault his players as all four teams in Group E finished level on four points, but Ukraine were ousted on goal difference after a damaging 3-0 loss to Romania in their opening match.
“I think that unfortunately we didn’t get to the knockout rounds because of the first game,” said Rebrov.
“I’m grateful to the players for how they responded.”
Ukraine are the first team in European Championship history to go out in the group stage despite picking up four points.
Their appearance at the tournament comes against the backdrop of the largest European conflict since World War II, with Ukraine ravaged by war since the Russian invasion in February 2022.
“I think everybody saw today we were trying to win this game. We were playing against one of the top teams so it was very difficult,” said Rebrov.
“I think for the last two matches there’s no questions about the work (effort) and the character of our players.
“Unfortunately we didn’t do well first game but that’s like in life, you make mistakes and then it’s important how you react. I think we reacted well.
“If we’re talking about today I’m very proud of the players. Everybody in Ukraine is unhappy with the score but I think there’s no question over the players.”
Ukraine carved out a succession of opportunities in the first half and battled to the end, missing chances in the dying seconds. The players were devastated at the final whistle, lost for words as fans held their heads in their hands wondering at what could have been. The team lined up before their supporters in a stand full of fluttering flags, raising their hands above their heads in choreographed applause.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who had hailed the team’s 2-1 defeat of Slovakia, was philosophical about the latest outcome.
“A strong nation is one that maintains unity and in which people always help one another. Both in times of defeat and in times of victory,” Zelenskiy wrote on Telegram.
“Despite the disappointing result, you fought for our country. Our victories still lie ahead. Victories for Ukraine. For now, let us stand firm, rise up and move forward to become stronger in the future.” — Agencies
