The 2024 European Championship gets underway today as host nation Germany takes on Scotland in the tournament’s opening match in Munich. The Germans will be hoping for a flying start on home soil, though they face a tough challenge against a Scotland side making their fourth Euro appearance.
Germany, led by manager Julian Nagelsmann, come into the match in good form after an unbeaten run of four games. However, they will be missing some key players, with Mats Hummels, Serge Gnabry and Leon Goretzka all absent from the squad. Bayern Munich youngster Aleksandar Pavlovic has also withdrawn through injury.
Despite these absences, Germany still boast an exciting attacking lineup featuring the likes of Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Leroy Sané, Kai Havertz and Niclas Füllkrug. Veteran midfielder Toni Kroos will anchor the team before retiring after the tournament.
Scotland, who qualified in second place behind Spain in their group, will be underdogs going into the opening match. Manager Steve Clarke will be hoping his side can pull off an upset against the hosts, but they face a tough task against a Germany team determined to get off to a winning start on home soil.
This is the fourth time Germany have hosted a major international tournament, and they will be aiming to match or better their previous best performances, which include winning the 1974 World Cup, reaching the semi-finals of Euro 1988, and finishing third at the 2006 World Cup.
All eyes will be on Munich later today as the 2024 European Championship gets underway with this highly anticipated clash between the host nation and the Tartan Army. Both teams will be desperate to start the tournament on a high note.