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.