Ukraine the casualties of Group E stalemate at Euro 2024

The outcome was even more heartbreaking for Ukraine as it had more shots on target than Belgium and nearly converted on a few chances. To advance to the Round of 16, Ukraine needed a draw against Belgium and hope for Slovakia or Romania to register a win and break the stalemate. The Ukrainians did their part, but didn't get the necessary help from one of their fellow Group E members. 

To Ukraine manager Serhiy Rebrov's credit, he did not make any excuses after the Euro 2024 elimination. Rebrov took culpability for Ukraine's 3-0 loss to Romania earlier in the tournament that ultimately proved to be the deciding factor in breaking the Group E stalemate (via goals difference).

"In heart, it feels like we lost this Euro in the first match (against Romania). There are many reasons (for the defeat), we analyzed this game," Rebrov said, via The Kyiv Independent. "I see that the players are reacting (to the instructions). We didn't make it to the playoffs because we lost important points, and not just points, but goals as well."

A similar stalemate occurred at the 1994 FIFA World Cup when Norway was tied with Italy, the Republic of Ireland and Mexico but didn't qualify due to the fewest goals scored. However, this was the first-of-a-kind occurrence at the European Championships.