The gaze of the footballing world will fixate on Munich on Friday, as Germany are set to get EURO2024 underway on home soil against a buoyant Scotland side – and if qualifying form is anything to go by, the Tartan Army are capable of causing an upset in Bavaria.
More than 100k fans have made the trip from every corner of Scotland to south-east Germany, with some estimates suggesting that the figure could be closer to the 200k mark.
Of course, Julian Nagelsmann and his die Mannschaft side will be the favourites to pick up three points on home soil, but if there’s one thing we’ve learnt from the buildup to this tournament, it is to never underestimate a Steve Clarke side.
What is the latest team news?
Julian Nagelsmann has made a late change to his German squad, with Emre Can introduced into the finalised squad. The midfielder replaces Aleksandar Pavlović, who was sent home after contracting tonsillitis earlier this week.
Perhaps the greatest relief of all for this Scotland side is that Andy Robertson is fit to face die Mannschaft, after concerns emerged earlier this week when the Liverpool left-back made an early exit from a training session.
Stuart Armstrong has recovered in time for the EURO2024 opening match, as has Lawrence Shankland. The 28-year-old forward previously withdrew from training with a niggle, but will be in contention for a spot in the matchday squad.
Who are the key players?
It’s hard to look past Toni Kroos as the star player in this German squad. Now 34 years old, the midfielder will hang up his boots at the end of EURO2024 – and he’ll be hoping he’s added another medal to his collection by then.
Elsewhere, it’s worth keeping an eye on Florian Wirtz. Accompanied by Jamal Musiala – who could have played for England – in Wednesday’s press conference, the pair emphasised that Germany don’t want to “die in beauty.”
It could be interesting to see what that means in effect when die Mannschaft take to the pitch.
If Germany are to be prevented from opening EURO2024 with three points, then Scott McTominay is likely the man who’ll be at the heart of it all. His goals during qualifying were crucial, with his brace that single-handedly secured a comfortable win over Spain coming as just one of many memorable performances.
What did the managers say?
Julian Nagelsmann is hoping that die Mannschaft can capitalise on their home advantage throughout the tournament, cracking a smile as he joked about not being able to hear his players during Friday’s opener.
Speaking on the Scotland squad, he highlighted that Scotland are “a team that doesn’t have world stars – but that makes them very dangerous.”
Steve Clarke made clear his belief that Germany are a good team, and that he has always expected “a really tough game” since the EURO2024 draw was made.
“Hopefully on the night we can show that we’re a good team as well,” he added, commenting that there’d be no point in playing if the Tartan Army didn’t believe they could win.
You can read more from both managers by clicking on their names – or you can watch every minute of Scotland’s press conference here.
What time is kick-off?
Kick-off for Germany v Scotland is scheduled for 20:00 BST [21:00 CEST] on Friday, 14th June.
How can I watch Germany v Scotland in Group B of EURO2024?
For those watching in the United Kingdom, Germany v Scotland will be broadcast live by ITV.
FromTheSpot will cover the match and the entire EURO2024 tournament. Stay updated via our website or our X account.
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