Euro 2024 kicked off earlier today with the host nation Germany taking on Scotland. It’s been 4 years since the last tournament, which saw Italy raise the trophy in London.
The Germans come into this tournament massively underrated, being ranked 16th in the world. They surely have a chip on their shoulders and will look to prove to everyone that they are still a force to be reckoned with.
Germany came out strong in front of their home fans against the Scots, taking a 2-0 lead within 20’ thanks to Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala. Continued dominance in the first half saw them go into the break up 3-0 after a foolish two footed challenge from Scottish center back Ryan Porteous saw him sent off and concede a penalty, which Kai Havertz tucked away.
The second half was more of the same dominance, with Nicklas Fullkrug rifling a goal in the 68’. About 20 minutes later, German center back Antonio Rudiger unluckily glanced a header into his own net. Substitute Emre Can later scored the final goal of the match in the 93’ as they capped off a commanding 5-1 effort in the opening match.
The player who impressed me the most was none other than Toni Kroos. The German maestro took the role of an American football quarterback, dropping back in the formation and picking Scotland apart with his passing. Kroos, who announced he will retire after the tournament, will look to go out on top as he chases the elusive European trophy to add to his already impressive collection.
With the result, Germany take first place in Group A while the Scots find themselves in last. The Germans will look to build off this performance in their next match against Hungary in Stuttgart while Scotland will look to bounce back against Switzerland.
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