The German national team will meet Scotland on matchday 1 of Euro 2024 Group A, at the Allianz Arena, Saturday (15/6) at 12.30 am IST. This match is important for Der Panzer to prove their readiness to become champions.
Appearing in the opening match of the Euro does not always end sweetly for Germany. At Euro 2020, Germany fell at the hands of France. The result made Germany fail to come out as group winners.
In this edition, the opponents faced by Germany are not at the same level as France. Scotland is a team that Ilkay Gundogan and friends have often defeated.
According to statistical records, Scotland has only one win in the last 13 duels against Germany. The rest are 4 draws and 8 defeats. The only win came in April 1999 when Don Hutchison's goal gave Scotland a 1-0 lead in a friendly.
In addition, Germany is also more convincing than Scotland in the last series of matches before the Euro. Germany reaped victories versus strong clubs, such as France and Germany.
Meanwhile, Scotland played 2-2 in the last match before Euro 2024.
Germany is believed to appear pressing since the first whistle sounded for three points. Moreover, Germany will appear in front of their own supporters. A win will clear Germany's way out as Group A champions.
Team Condition
All German players are in a state of readiness. Manuel Neuer is expected to be the mainstay under the crossbar.
Meanwhile, for attacking matters, Kai Havertz has the opportunity to play from the first minute. The Arsenal striker is predicted to be supported by Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala from the wing sector.
Turning to the other side, Scotland are still monitoring the condition of Andy Robertson and Lawrence Shankland. Meanwhile, Callum McGregor's condition is doubtful.
Comment
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann will not underestimate Scotland. Because, according to him, the opponents in Group A have relatively equal strength.
"This is not a deadly group. However, there are no really bad opponents. This is an interesting group," Julian Nagelsmann reviewed according to the Daily Record report.
"There is pressure to be felt. However, what dominates the most is excitement. If we can show that joy, we'll have a great tournament."
Forecast line-up
Germany (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Rudiger, Mittelstadt; Andrich, Kroos; Musiala, Gundogan, Wirtz; Havertz.
Coach: Julian Nagelsmann.
Scotland (3-4-2-1): Gunn; Hendry, Hanley, Tierney; Ralston, Gilmour, McGregor, Robertson; McTominay, McGinn; Adams.
Coach: Steve Clarke.
Head to head
08/09/15 Scotland 2-3 Germany (Euro Qualifier)
08/09/14 Germany 2-1 Scotland (Euro Qualifier)
11/09/03 Germany 2-1 Scotland (Euro Qualifier)
07/06/03 Scotland 1-1 Germany (Euro Qualifier)
28/04/99 Germany 0-1 Scotland (Test)
FOOTEM Prediction
Germany 2-0 Scotland