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In a sigh of relief for Italy, midfielder Davide Frattesi expressed satisfaction after the European champions clinched qualification for Euro 2024 with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Ukraine in Leverkusen on Monday. The result ensures that Italy, who faced disappointments by missing out on the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, won't be absent from another major tournament after their Euro 2020 triumph.
Both Italy and Ukraine concluded their Euro 2024 qualification campaign with 14 points, trailing Group C leaders England. However, Italy's superior head-to-head record, secured with a 2-1 victory in Milan in September, catapulted them into the upcoming European championship.
Frattesi acknowledged the challenges they faced during the crucial match, stating, "We knew if we were unable to break the deadlock in the first hour, it would become really tough. Ukraine then made it a more physical match." Despite the pressure, Frattesi praised the team's overall performance, emphasizing the significance of qualification.
"We suffered, but it was important to get through. Now we'll try to repeat something fantastic," added Frattesi, looking ahead to the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany. The midfielder's optimism echoes the team's determination to build on their recent successes and compete at the highest level once again.
"We had to keep attacking -- but Ukraine proved they are a very good team who gave us a lot of problems," Luciano Spalletti, who led Napoli to their first Serie A title since 1990 last season, said.
As Italy sets its sights on Euro 2024, the qualification marks a pivotal moment in their journey, and the team is poised to strive for excellence on the European stage once more.
