Serbia Clinches Euro 2024 Spot Amid Lukaku’s Record-Breaking Performance

Serbia’s Long-Awaited Triumph

Serbia has ended a 24-year wait, securing their spot in the UEFA European Championship after a gripping 2-2 draw with Bulgaria. This marks their first entry into the EURO finals since 2000. The match saw a dramatic shift with Serbia’s Miloš Veljković scoring initially, followed by a Bulgarian comeback, only for Serbia to level the game, denying Bulgaria their first win in Group G​.

Lukaku’s Historic Night

Romelu Lukaku of Belgium set a new European Qualifiers goalscoring record during their game against Azerbaijan. His remarkable four-goal performance within the first half not only led Belgium to clinch the top spot in Group F but also surpassed the previous record tally for EURO preliminaries​.

Key Results from Sunday’s Matches

• Group A saw Scotland and Norway ending in a 3-3 draw, while Spain secured a 3-1 victory over Georgia​.
• In Group F, Belgium triumphed 5-0 against Azerbaijan, and Sweden won 2-0 over Estonia​.
• Hungary clinched victory against Montenegro with a 3-1 scoreline, ensuring the top spot in Group G​.
• Group J had Slovakia defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-1, Luxembourg winning 1-0 against Liechtenstein, and Portugal beating Iceland 2-0​.

The Road to Euro 2024: What Lies Ahead

• Sixteen teams have already qualified, with four more spots still up for grabs​.
• Monday’s matches promise drama, especially with Italy needing to secure their qualification against Ukraine​.
• The Croatia vs. Wales match stands as a crucial deciding game for Group D’s runners-up spot​.

Potential First-Timers and High-Stakes Showdowns

• Kazakhstan and Moldova, both potentially first-time participants, are in contention for final spots. Kazakhstan needs a win against Slovenia, while Moldova faces a decisive game against Czechia​.
• Ukraine faces a monumental match against Italy, where a victory could seal their qualification​.
• France is on track to match Portugal’s 100% record in the qualifiers if they succeed in their upcoming match against Greece​.

These events highlight the intense competition and excitement building up as the UEFA European Championship approaches. With teams battling for qualification and records being set, the stage is set for a thrilling tournament in 2024.