Defending European champions Italy qualified for Euro 2024 after a goalless draw against Ukraine in Germany.
The point ensured Italy finished second in Group C, level on 14 points with third-placed Ukraine but with a better head-to-head record after a tense affair that could have gone either way.
Ukraine, who have never beaten Italy, had strong claims for a stoppage-time penalty after Bryan Cristante’s clumsy challenge on Mykhailo Mudryk but nothing was given.
Ukraine can still book a spot at a fourth consecutive European Championship via the play-offs in March. The play-off draw will take place on Thursday in Nyon.
Meanwhile, Italy ended six points behind Group C winners England, who had sealed qualification after beating Luciano Spalletti’s side 3-1 at Wembley in October.
The match at the BayArena in Leverkusen got off to a lively start but both goalkeepers – Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Ukraine’s Anatoliy Trubin – held firm in an entertaining clash.
Italy, who will make their eighth consecutive appearance at the Euros, had most possession and created more chances but Ukraine remained composed as they looked to counter-attack.