Belgium has successfully navigated its way into the knockout stages of Euro 2024 after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Ukraine in their final Group E match. The result, coupled with Romania's 1-1 draw against Slovakia, ensured Belgium's qualification as the second-placed team behind Romania in a tightly contested group where all four teams finished level on four points.

It was a heart-breaking end to the tournament for Ukraine, despite accumulating more points than some third-placed teams from other groups. Unfortunately, they finished at the bottom of Group E, becoming the first team in the history of the European Championship to gather four points and still finish last.

Belgium's inability to claim the top spot in Group E means they now face a daunting challenge in the next round, as they go head-to-head against France. The Red Devils, who showed glimpses of their potential earlier in the tournament, will need to elevate their game against the formidable French national team.

Throughout the encounter with Ukraine, Belgium struggled to find their rhythm, offering a sluggish and disjointed performance. Captain and star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne tried to orchestrate plays, but the Red Devils failed to trouble Ukrainian goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin significantly. Although Belgium dominated possession during the opening 20 minutes, they were unable to test the Ukrainian defense effectively.

Ukraine tactically made a bold decision by dropping Oleksandr Zinchenko and captain Andriy Yarmolenko from the starting lineup. Additionally, they had to cope without the services of injured Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk. Despite these absences, Ukraine managed to mount sustained pressure on Belgium through the impressive efforts of Roman Yaremchuk and Artem Dobvik.

Yaremchuk, in particular, had some notable moments, including stinging the palms of Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels with a long-range shot. Dobvik, unfortunately, failed to capitalize on a prime opportunity, dragging his shot wide from the edge of the penalty area. Yaremchuk also had a chance to take the lead for Ukraine, but opted to cross rather than shoot.

Belgium's only significant threat came through De Bruyne, who tirelessly carried the team forward. The midfielder's brilliant pass set up Romelu Lukaku, but the striker scuffed his shot when through on goal. De Bruyne's presence was instrumental in Belgium's 2-0 victory over Romania, after suffering a shocking 1-0 defeat to Slovakia in the tournament opener.

As the game progressed, Ukraine started to assert dominance over Belgium, sensing the urgent need to secure a victory. With the knowledge that a draw between Romania and Slovakia could potentially see them finish at the bottom of the group on goal difference, Ukraine pressed forward.

Both sides showed increased intent during the final 20 minutes of the match. Yannick Carrasco forced a smart save from Trubin, while Ruslan Malinovskyi almost caught Casteels unaware at his near post from a corner. In the closing minutes, Ukraine's Georgiy Sudakov had a golden opportunity to secure a win, but his shot was straight at Casteels. The final whistle left the Ukrainian players devastated, ending their Euro 2024 campaign in a cruel manner, although they made history for all the wrong reasons.

Belgium's narrow passage to the knockout stage ensures a thrilling encounter with France in the next round. If Belgium wishes to advance further in the tournament, they will need to elevate their performance and find a way to overcome the daunting challenge that lies ahead.