Ukraine secured their place in the Euro 2024 lineup with a dramatic late victory over Iceland, thanks to Mykhailo Mudryk's 84th-minute winner. The match, played in neutral Poland due to security concerns in Kyiv, saw Ukraine fans display banners criticizing Russia. Midfielder Oleksandr Zinchenko praised the fans for their support during these challenging times.
Georgia also qualified for their first major tournament by defeating Greece in a penalty shootout. The celebrations in Tbilisi were wild as fans poured onto the field to revel in their team's success.
Poland completed the lineup by overcoming Wales in a penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny making a crucial save. Captain Robert Lewandowski's team will face tough competition in Group D against France, the Netherlands, and Austria.
Ukraine, Georgia, and Poland now join the other 21 nations in the Euro 2024 tournament, set to be held in 10 German cities from June 14 to July 14. Ukraine will face Romania, Slovakia, and top-seeded Belgium in Group F, while Georgia will take on Turkey, the Czech Republic, and Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal. Poland's journey begins against the Netherlands, followed by matches against Austria and France.
These qualifying playoffs showcased the resilience and determination of the teams, with Ukraine's late comebacks, Georgia's historic achievement, and Poland's nerve-wracking victory. The stage is now set for an exciting Euro 2024 tournament, where fans can expect thrilling matches and memorable moments on the field.
