Germany thrashed Scotland 5-1 in their Euro 2024 opening match at the Allianz Arena in Munich. The Scots, down to ten men after a first-half red card, were no match for the clinical German side.
Germany started the game with intent, immediately putting Scotland under pressure. It didn’t take long for the hosts to break the deadlock. In the 10th minute, Florian Wirtz capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past Angus Gunn, giving Germany an early lead.
The Germans doubled their advantage in the 19th minute when Jamal Musiala rifled a powerful shot into the roof of the net, leaving Gunn with no chance. The Scottish defense looked shell-shocked as the home side continued to dominate possession and create chances.
Scotland’s hopes of a comeback took a severe blow just before halftime. Ryan Porteous was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Ilkay Gundogan after a VAR review. The subsequent penalty was calmly converted by Kai Havertz, putting Germany 3-0 up and effectively ending the contest as a competitive affair.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Scotland tried to muster a response in the second half, but Germany’s quality shone through. Niclas Fullkrug added a fourth with a stunning drive into the top corner, a goal that highlighted the attacking depth and precision of the German squad.
Scotland did manage to get on the scoresheet late in the game, courtesy of an own goal by Antonio Rudiger. The German defender misjudged a cross, heading it past his own goalkeeper, giving the Scottish fans a rare moment of celebration.
However, any fleeting hopes of a Scottish rally were quickly extinguished as Emre Can scored with the last kick of the game. His composed finish capped off a dominant performance by the Germans, sealing a 5-1 victory and marking the largest win in an opening match at the Euros.
Scotland’s manager, Steve Clarke, had emphasized a fearless approach with his “respect everyone, fear no one” mantra. However, the reality on the pitch proved harsh for the Scots, who were outclassed by a superior German team. Clarke will need to rally his players and refocus their efforts for the remaining group stage matches if they hope to advance.
German coach Hansi Flick, on the other hand, will be buoyed by his team’s performance. The comprehensive victory not only boosts their confidence but also sends a strong message to other contenders about Germany’s intentions in this tournament.
- 10th Minute: Florian Wirtz scores the opening goal for Germany.
- 19th Minute: Jamal Musiala doubles the lead with a powerful strike.
- 44th Minute: Ryan Porteous receives a red card; Kai Havertz scores from the penalty spot.
- 74th Minute: Niclas Fullkrug adds a spectacular fourth goal.
- 89th Minute: Antonio Rudiger’s own goal gives Scotland a consolation.
- 90+3 Minute: Emre Can rounds off the scoring with a fifth goal for Germany.
