June 15,(V7N)- Germany triumphed over a 10-man Scotland with a 5-1 victory as the Euro 2024 hosts started the tournament impressively in Munich on Friday. This marks the beginning of their campaign to secure a record fourth continental title.

Florian Wirtz opened the scoring 10 minutes in, and Jamal Musiala soon made it 2-0 with a decisive finish.

"We couldn't have had a better start. We've seen the atmosphere in the country, and we need that," Musiala commented on Germany's explosive beginning.

Scotland's troubles deepened before half-time when Ryan Porteous received a red card for a two-footed tackle on Ilkay Gundogan, resulting in a penalty that Kai Havertz converted.

Substitute Niclas Fuellkrug added a fourth goal midway through the second half, and despite a late own goal from Antonio Ruediger, Germany's dominant performance remained unblemished. Emre Can rounded off the scoring with the final kick of the game.

Disastrous Scottish Start

Scotland, experiencing a nightmare start, must now quickly regroup for upcoming Group A matches against Switzerland and Hungary.

"Today was hugely disappointing but you're playing against the host nation and it's the first game... things don't get much tougher than that," said Scotland captain Andy Robertson.

Germany's statement win comes after three successive failures at major tournaments, including group stage exits at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Hosting their first men's major tournament since the 2006 World Cup, Germany aims to rekindle national team passion.

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann noted his players' hunger to rectify past shortcomings, with optimism rising since his appointment in September. Scotland's coach Steve Clarke, however, urged his team to "fear no one" as they embark on their second consecutive Euros after a long hiatus from international competition.

Germany quickly took control against a Scotland team with only one win from their past nine matches, a modest 2-0 victory over Gibraltar last week.

Germany Hits the Ground Running

Germany dominated early, with goalkeeper Angus Gunn blocking an offside Wirtz before Germany seized control. Toni Kroos, returning from retirement, set up Wirtz to score the opener. Kroos and Gundogan, with their experience, anchored the midfield effectively.

Gundogan's pass found Havertz, who assisted Musiala in scoring the second goal. Although initially awarded a penalty for a foul on Musiala, the referee adjusted the decision to a free-kick after a VAR review.

However, another VAR review led to Porteous' red card and a penalty, which Havertz converted. This deflated the Scottish supporters, who had traveled in large numbers.

Despite attempts to limit further damage, Fuellkrug's powerful shot added to Germany's tally. Scotland's sole consolation came from Ruediger's own goal. Can's late strike capped a memorable night for Germany.

Reigning European champions Italy begin their title defense on Saturday against Albania in Dortmund. Spain will face Croatia in Group B in Berlin, with Hungary playing Switzerland in Cologne earlier in the day.

End/V7N/Sma/dk/