Aoba Tanaka 
Scotland endured a night to forget as they were thumped 5-1 by hosts Germany in their Euro 2024 opener. Steve Clarke’s side struggled to keep pace, with even their most experienced players failing to make an impact.
The match began disastrously for Scotland when Florian Wirtz’s first-time shot from just inside the box slipped past goalkeeper Angus Gunn in the 10th minute. The situation rapidly deteriorated as Jamal Musiala netted a brilliant goal just nine minutes later, putting Germany firmly in control.
Scotland’s woes were compounded when Ryan Porteous was sent off just before halftime for a rash challenge on Ilkay Gundogan. Kai Havertz made no mistake from the penalty spot, sending the hosts into the break with a commanding lead.
The second half saw no respite for the Scots. Substitute Niclas Fullkrug added a fourth for Germany with a powerful strike in the 68th minute. Although Antonio Rudiger’s own goal gave Scotland a brief moment of relief three minutes from time, Emre Can sealed their fate with a curling shot at the death, ending the match at 5-1.
This result leaves Scotland with just one win in their last ten games, highlighting the challenges Clarke’s team faces in the tournament. Despite the heavy loss, the Tartan Army will be hoping to regroup and bounce back in their next fixture.
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