Despite conceding three goals to Romania in a disappointing match where Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin lost his starting position, Ukraine fought back. Ivan Schranz’s second goal in two games for Slovakia threatened to end Ukraine’s Euro 2024 journey prematurely. However, Mykola Shaparenko’s composed finish from Oleksandr Zinchenko’s cross leveled the score. Roman Yaremchuk redeemed himself by scoring an exquisite goal in the 80th minute to secure victory.

Ukraine’s path to the knockout stage remains open. A win would guarantee a top-two finish, and if they secure all three points and better Romania’s result, they could even top the group. Alternatively, a draw would be enough for third place and potential qualification if Romania beats Slovakia. Even a defeat might not be fatal if Slovakia also loses. Coach Serhiy Rebrov’s focus is on the game, not complicated calculations.

Interestingly, Ukraine has followed a peculiar pattern at the European Championships, either scoring no goals or netting two in each of their last 13 games. All four of their victories at the tournament have come via a 2-1 scoreline.

Belgium’s all-time top scorer, Romelu Lukaku, faced challenges at Euro 2024. Despite a stroke of bad luck in the surprising loss to Slovakia, he bounced back against Romania. Youri Tielemans’ lightning-fast goal in the 73rd minute set the tone, and Kevin De Bruyne added the second. De Bruyne’s clinical finish secured Belgium’s crucial victory in Cologne. Currently, the “Red Devils” sit in second place in the group.

Sportai365 predicts a win for Belgium.