Ukraine's national soccer team and its fans, hungry for success at Euro 2024 after more than two years of a grinding war against Russia, lamented their elimination on Wednesday, but expressed pride over the team's effort.
Ukraine drew 0-0 against Belgium and finished the group stage with 4 points — not good enough to advance in a group that featured an even finish among the four teams.
"Being in the tournament was very important for our country. We showed the character of our nation, after nearly 900 days of the war," Ukraine coach Serhiy Rebrov told reporters. "It's very important to show people in Europe, people in Ukraine, that we are still fighting."