Ten-man Scotland endured a tough start to Euro 2024, succumbing to a 5-1 defeat against a dominant Germany in Munich on Friday night.
The hosts showcased their prowess, dismantling Steve Clarke’s squad with a commanding performance that began with Florian Wirtz opening the scoring just ten minutes in.
Despite Angus Gunn’s touch, Wirtz’s strike found the back of the net, setting the tone for the evening.
Jamal Musiala doubled Germany’s lead nine minutes later, capitalizing on Scotland’s shaky defense.
The early double salvo left the Scots reeling, and their woes deepened when Ryan Porteous received a red card following a VAR review, reducing them to ten men.
Kai Havertz added to Scotland’s misery by converting the resulting penalty, giving Germany a 3-0 advantage at halftime.
Clarke attempted to stabilize his side by introducing Grant Hanley for Che Adams, but the Germans continued their onslaught.
Nicolas Fullkrug’s sublime finish midway through the second half extended Germany’s lead to 4-0, and although he later had another goal ruled out for offside, the damage was done.
Scotland managed a late consolation when Antonio Rudiger’s own goal brought a brief moment of cheer to the Tartan Army.
However, any hopes of a miraculous comeback were dashed when Emre Can netted in injury time, sealing a historic 5-1 victory for Germany in the opening match of the tournament.
