Reactions as Italy Controversially Qualify for Euro After Ukraine Were Denied 92nd Minute Penalty

• Ukraine vs Italy Euro 2024 qualifier ended in a goalless draw
• The draw was enough to earn Italy a spot in the finals of the tournament slated for next summer
• Italy's only route to qualification will be through the playoffs

Fans have voiced their anger after Italy controversially qualified for Euro 2024 at the expense of Ukraine, who were denied a 92nd-minute penalty during their meeting on Monday night.

Italy, who are the defending champions, needed just a point in the final Group C meeting to be guaranteed a spot in the Euro finals slated for next summer in Germany.

According to Sky Sports, the defending European champions went on to force Ukraine to a goalless draw to seal their spot.

The publication adds that the point ensured Italy finished second in Group C, level on 14 points with third-placed Ukraine.

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The biggest talking point of the Monday clash was a penalty call that was overlooked at the stoppage time, denying Ukraine a golden chance to bag the three points.

Fans react as Ukraine denied penalty

Furious fans were quick to take to social media to register their disappointment with the denied penalty, with some contending Ukraine had been robbed.

@brodamike07 observed:

"This was a clear penalty. Everyone turning their backs against Ukraine, including the ref."

@freddyCR7LA added:

"Ukraine robbed. Clear contact."

@CFC_Sims1 lamented:

"That was just a robbery, not even VAR check was called."

@Sizeless12 concluded:

"They were robbed. They ref and VAR are a joke, I wish Italy nothing but failure in euro2024."

Meanwhile, ESPN reports that Ukraine still have an opportunity to qualify for the tournament through the playoff round.

How Ronaldo reacted to Portugal's victory

Portugal secured a 2-0 victory against Iceland at home, concluding their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign with a flawless record of 10 consecutive wins in Group J.

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Led by Ronaldo, the Selecao wrapped up their campaign with 30 points, a significant eight ahead of Slovakia, securing both teams' places in next year's finals in Germany.

Despite not scoring, Ronaldo expressed emotions on social media, celebrating Portugal's accomplishment of winning all their qualification matches, Sports Brief reported.