That was a scenario they desperately wanted to avoid following the trauma of failing to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups after losing in play-offs, either side of winning the last European Championship in 2021. 

The high stakes made it a tense occasion and Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma had to produce a firm hand low down to keep out an early Georgiy Sudakov strike. 

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However, Luciano Spalletti’s side threatened at the other end with Ukraine ‘keeper Anatoliy Trubin saving from Nicolo Barella and racing out to deny Davide Frattesi before the half-hour mark. 

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Donnarumma denies Mudryk

Donnarumma blocked a Mykhailo Mudryk attempt in the 65th minute and there was a flashpoint in stoppage time when the Ukraine winger went down in the Italy box under a Bryan Cristante challenge, but no penalty was given. The two nations finish level on 14 points behind England in Group C. 

“We are delighted. After all the difficulties we have had, we will be in Germany and we will be going there as reigning champions and going there to win,” said Donnarumma told broadcaster Rai 1. 

Ukraine must therefore negotiate the play-offs if they are to return to Germany for the tournament next June. 

England settle for draw

England had already qualified before their trip to Skopje to play North Macedonia, when they needed a second-half own goal to earn a 1-1 draw and finish their campaign undefeated. 

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