Julian Nagelsmann, who previously managed Bayern Munich, will be in the familiar Allianz Arena dugout seeking a strong start to Germany's campaign. This tournament marks Germany’s first Euros without Joachim Low and their second major tournament since his departure following Euro 2020, where they were eliminated by England in the last 16.
Eighteen months after a disappointing World Cup under Hansi Flick, Germany is seen as the favorite to top a group that includes Hungary and Switzerland. With three wins and a draw in their four friendlies this year, including victories over France and the Netherlands, the hosts enter Friday’s match in good form. As hosts, Germany didn’t need to qualify, so they haven’t played a competitive match since their 4-2 win over Costa Rica in the 2022 World Cup.
Despite not keeping a clean sheet in their last 12 Euros/World Cup games, Germany has reached the semi-finals in each of the last three major tournaments they’ve hosted. Competing in their 14th European Championships, Germany aims to extend their record and, with a fourth title, surpass Spain as the most successful nation in the tournament’s history.
Scotland, on the other hand, has more modest goals. This match marks their 10th-ever appearance in the Euros finals. In previous tournaments, Scotland managed only one group-stage win in both 1992 and 1996 before exiting early. Their return in 2021 ended without a single victory.
Despite a rocky path, Scotland’s impressive start in Euro 2024 qualifying, including a win over Spain, ensured their spot in Germany. However, recent form has been shaky, with just one win in their last nine matches. Scotland’s last victory over Germany was a 1-0 friendly win in 1999. In competitive play, they’ve lost their last four encounters, including two Euro 2016 qualifiers.
Scotland also fell short in their only two previous major tournament meetings with Germany, losing in the 1986 World Cup and Euro 1992. Facing these odds, Scotland will need to defy both history and form to make a mark against Germany in the Euro 2024 opener.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Germany's preparations for Euro 2024 have hit a few bumps, with several key players missing from the squad. Leon Goretzka, Serge Gnabry, and Timo Werner were left out for various reasons, and now 20-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlovic has withdrawn due to tonsillitis. Borussia Dortmund's Emre Can has been called up as a replacement, but coach Julian Nagelsmann is expected to rely on a midfield duo of Bayer Leverkusen's Robert Andrich and the retiring Toni Kroos.In this setup, Ilkay Gundogan is likely to captain the team from the number 10 position. However, Nagelsmann faces tough decisions in the attack. Leroy Sane and Florian Wirtz are competing for spots out wide, while Niclas Fullkrug and Kai Havertz vie for the striker role. Havertz, who previously had a brief stint as a left-back for Germany, is expected to start over Fullkrug, despite a recent training-ground clash between Fullkrug and Antonio Rudiger, which has since been resolved.
Scotland, meanwhile, has also been hit by injuries. Striker Lyndon Dykes had to withdraw due to an ankle injury, leaving the team without a key attacking option. Liverpool winger Ben Doak, who was dealing with a knee issue, also pulled out, as did Rangers' John Souttar and veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon when Steve Clarke trimmed his squad to 26 players.
Despite these setbacks, key players like Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay, and Stuart Armstrong are expected to be fit and ready. Ryan Jack missed training on Tuesday but is not expected to miss the match.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Germany possible starting lineup:Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Rudiger, Mittelstadt; Kroos, Andrich; Musiala, Gundogan, Wirtz; Havertz
Scotland possible starting lineup:
Gunn; Hendry, Hanley, Tierney; Ralston, McTominay, Gilmour, Robertson; McGinn, Christie; Shankland
EXPERT PREDICTION
Germany 3-1 Scotland
Yet, Nagelsmann's team has already defeated France and the Netherlands this year, and they face a Scotland side that hasn't maintained its strong start to Euro 2024 qualifying. Given the circumstances, the hosts should start the tournament with a comfortable win.
