Italy fortunate to qualify for Euro 2024 as Mykhailo Mudryk denied last-gasp penalty as fans slam ‘ludicrous’ decision

ITALY have qualified for Euro 2024 – but only after Mykhailo Mudryk was denied a late “stonewall” penalty for Ukraine.

The reigning European champions secured the point they needed as they held Ukraine to a goalless draw.

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Italy were celebrating after they secured their place at Euro 2024[/caption]

Reuters

Ukraine were furious after Mykhailo Mudryk was denied a late penalty[/caption]

viaplay

He appeared to be fouled by Italy’s Bryan Cristante inside the box in additional time[/caption]

Viaplay

A VAR check ruled that the challenge on the Ukraine winger was fair as Italy held on[/caption]

That result was enough to finish Group C as runners-up behind England – who drew 1-1 in North Macedonia.

Ukraine were controversially denied a penalty against Italy following a VAR check in the 92nd minute as they won’t compete at Euro 2024.

The Three Lions topped it 20 points as Italy ended up ahead of tonight’s opponents, who ended up on the same points tally of 14.

But the Azzurri’s spot at next summer’s showpiece in Germany was secured based on their head-to-head record.

However, just as the game ended entered the third minute of additional time, Ukraine believe they should have had the opportunity to win it.

They were denied a spot-kick after a VAR review after Italy’s Bryan Cristante appeared to have fouled Chelsea winger Mudryk inside the box.

The Ukrainians were naturally furious at the decision – but a host of football fans across the world were as well after viewing the footage of the challenge and soon showed their anger on social media.

“Terrible decision making here,” declared one furious supporter.

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Another asked: “How have VAR not given that?”

“That’s a terrible decision. Ukraine have been done there by VAR,” blasted another viewer.

A fellow fan declared it “shocking” and claimed it was “100 per cent a penalty”.

“Absolute stonewaller,” said another fan, while the decision was called “shambolic” by another supporter on social media.

“Stonewaller,” said one more, as another raged: “Football really is rotten. Absolutely ridiculous decision.”

And another viewer added: “That is completely scandalous.”