The biggest platform in European football is all set, as UEFA Euro 2024 is about to kick off tonight with hosts Germany taking on Scotland in Munich in the opening match of the tournament. The three-time European winners will hope to start their campaign with a win, which could potentially set the tune for the rest of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Scotland have arrived at this tournament on the back of a wonderful performance in the Euro Qualifiers. In a group stacked with teams like Spain and Norway, the Scots managed to finish the group at second position right behind Spain, amassing five wins and two draws in eight matches. One of those wins saw Scotland beat group topper and heavyweight Spain last year by a comfortable 2-0 margin.
The Germans will look to end their bad run at international tournaments, as the Die Mannschaft faced group stage exit at the last two World Cups, and also exited from the Round of 16 at the Euro 2020. The Ilkay Gundogan-led team, under the coaching of Julian Nagelsmann, will be desperate to lift the European trophy in front of their home fans after a gap of 28 years.
The Euro 2024 also happens to be Germany’s first men’s major tournament as hosts since the 2006 World Cup. Aware of the Scottish threat and their potential of creating upsets, Nagelsmann believes in his players’ confidence and eagerness to succeed, playing on the home grounds. “When I look in my players’ eyes. I see a lot of belief and a lot of confidence, which is what I want. We have the home advantage, we want to win”, said the 36-year-old head coach.
Captain Gundogan emphasised the importance of starting the tournament with a win. “No other game is like the first one, because then you can use that momentum and that euphoria for the next few games, and that is why the most important objective tomorrow is to win the game,” said Gundogan. Germany is placed in Group A along with Hungary, Switzerland and Scotland.
The Germany vs Scotland Euro 2024 match will take place in Allianz Arena, Munich. The kick-off time is 12:30 am IST.
For Indian viewers, you can watch the match on Sony Sports Network and its channels. For live streaming, you can watch the match on SonyLIV app and website.
