Euro 2024: Romania and Slovakia Advance to Last 16; Belgium Also Secure Spot
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| Euro 2024: Romania and Slovakia Advance to Last 16; Belgium Also Secure Spot |
In a gripping Euro 2024 Group E match on Wednesday, Romania and Slovakia played to a 1-1 draw, ensuring both teams advanced to the last 16. Romania’s Razvan Marin converted a first-half penalty to equalize after Ondrej Duda’s header put Slovakia ahead.
All four teams in Group E concluded with four points each. Romania claimed the top spot due to goals scored, edging out Belgium, who finished second. Slovakia secured third place on goal difference, leaving Ukraine in fourth. Romania and Slovakia must wait until the end of the group stage to know their last-16 opponents. Meanwhile, Belgium will head to Duesseldorf to face France on Monday.
For Romania, this marks their first advancement to the Euros' knockout stages since 2000. Slovakia, making their second appearance in the last 16 since 2016, when they lost to Germany, took the lead midway through the first half. Juraj Kucka’s cross found Duda, who headed the ball into the net, leaving Romanian coach Edward Iordanescu frustrated.
The turning point came when Ianis Hagi was brought down by Slovakia’s David Hancko. Initially, a free kick was awarded, but VAR determined the contact occurred inside the box. Marin’s penalty shot was flawless, igniting celebrations among the predominantly Romanian crowd.
Belgium secured their place in the last 16 after a 0-0 draw with Ukraine, who were consequently eliminated. Despite dominating possession, Belgium struggled to break down a resilient Ukraine defense. Both teams had chances, but the match ended in a stalemate, allowing Belgium to advance and setting up a clash with France.
Group C: England Tops After Draw; Denmark Advances
England secured first place in Group C despite a 0-0 draw with Slovenia. Denmark also advanced by holding Serbia to a goalless draw. Slovenia needed at least a point to progress and started strongly, with Benjamin Sesko testing England’s goalkeeper early on. England had their chances, including a disallowed goal by Bukayo Saka and a near-miss from Harry Kane.
Post-break, England controlled possession but couldn’t penetrate Slovenia’s defense. England coach Gareth Southgate commented on their dominance and missed opportunities. Denmark, unable to score against Serbia, still moved on as runners-up.
England finished Group C with five points, followed by Denmark and Slovenia with three points each, and Serbia with two. The leading two teams from each group, as well as the four highest-ranked third-placed teams, progress to the round of 16.
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