Germany started their Euro 2024 campaign with a resounding 5-1 victory over Scotland in Munich. Goals from Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala in the first half set the tone for the dominant performance by the host nation. Germany captain İlkay Gündoğan expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and the support from the fans at the Allianz Arena. The result was a massive confidence boost for Germany, who have faced criticism after their early exits in previous major tournaments.
The Germans showcased their superiority in the first half, with Kai Havertz converting a penalty kick after Ryan Porteous was sent off for Scotland. Substitutes Niclas Füllkrug and Emre Can added more goals in the second half, while Scotland managed a late consolation goal. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann praised his team’s early performance and highlighted the importance of building on this strong start. Despite the convincing victory, Germany remains focused on the upcoming matches against Hungary and Switzerland to secure a spot in the knockout stage.
Scotland’s manager, Steve Clarke, acknowledged that his team did not play up to their standards and were outclassed by a strong German side. While disappointed with the result, Clarke remains optimistic about the team’s chances in the remaining group stage matches. Scotland will need to improve their performance against Hungary and Switzerland to advance to the knockout stage for the first time. The Tartan Army supporters were silenced early in the match by Germany’s quick goals, but they continued to cheer on their team despite the defeat.
Germany’s youngest Euros goal-scorer, Florian Wirtz, opened the scoring in the 10th minute after an impressive setup from Toni Kroos and Joshua Kimmich. Musiala doubled the lead with a well-worked goal before Havertz extended the lead from the penalty spot. Scotland’s defense struggled to contain Germany’s attacking prowess, conceding four more goals before scoring a late consolation goal through an own goal by Germany defender Antonio Rüdiger. The match also saw a memorable moment for Emre Can, who scored on his debut after being called up as a late replacement.
The capacity crowd at the Allianz Arena included notable figures like German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Scotland First Minister John Swinney, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. The atmosphere in the stadium reflected the excitement and anticipation surrounding the Euro 2024 tournament. Germany’s next match against Hungary will be another crucial test, while Scotland aims to bounce back against Switzerland. Despite the impressive start, both teams are aware of the challenges ahead and will be looking to build on their performances in the upcoming matches.
