Germany 5-1 Scotland - Euro 2024 RECAP: Hosts run riot in Munich as Jamal Musiala delivers masterclass in front of packed home crowd in tournament opener against the Scots

What a way to start the tournament, eh?

You don't get much better than seeing six goals, a red card, and a penalty. It was a cracking watch unless you are Scottish.

It was a pretty rubbish night to be a Scot, especially after the day they had been having in Munich.

Steve Clarke's side were just not up to the task, Germany walked all over them, and they barely gave any resistance.

It's only one game, though, there are plenty more to come for them. It's not over yet.

Anyway, I've got to shoot off now. Opening night is having its curtain call, thank you for joining us, as always.

There is plenty more still to come. Auf wiedersehen!

Right, now it's time for the big question...

They were one of the favourites for the competition coming in, so surely now, they have gone even further up in people's estimations.

You can't just go off one performance, but I think they ave a great chance at winning the whole tournament.

Do you think they will do it?

Jack Hendry, Scotland defender, speaking to the BBC:

Obviously, it's an extremely disappointing result and probably the manner that it came about. Now we've got to focus on the games coming up. Anything is possible, you can't get too downbeat. Germany are a very good team. We have got to dust ourselves down and move forward.

We'll analyse what went wrong when we get back to base camp and try and make sure that doesn't happen in the next two games. I don't think we can be too critical on ourselves given that we've got two games remaining.

As footballers, you always analyse games so for us now it's extremely important we get to the bottom of how that result came about. We'll learn from it and hopefully give a better account of ourselves in the next game. Games come quickly, this one will be swept under the carpet quite quickly.

When you go down to 10 men against a top team like Germany it's never going to be great. We have come this far because we're a strong nation. We stick together and we can't let a result like this get us down.

It ended up being a historical night for Germany.

No host nation has ever won by a bigger scoreline to open a European championship. They were destructive.

On top of that, it's the German's biggest victory at the Euros. It really was a night to remember.

Sorry to remind you, Scotland fans...

Julian Nagelsmann, Germany boss, speaking to ITV:

I’m happy, I’m satisfied, it's not easy to have the first game in our own country. We were brilliant in the first 20 minutes, I was happy with the performance.

We conceded but at the end it’s okay, it’s a good sign that our players complained about conceding. I was kind of surprised that Scotland weren't that aggressive in first 20 minutes. I think they were surprised by our ball possession, it was very concentrated.

They then defended deeper and didn't high press as they have in the qualifying games at times.

Roy Keane, former Republic of Ireland international, on ITV:

Andy Robertson spoke at the end of the game and said they had a game plan. It's all well and good having a plan. He said they weren't aggressive enough. You have to be aggressive in a game of football. When you're up against opposition who are much stronger than you, being aggressive is part of being a footballer.

My goodness, when you're playing at this level, you've got to hit people. Hit them properly, hit them aggressively, do it in the right way. If you step off them like Scotland did tonight... It's no good talking after the game saying we had a game plan. It's rubbish! Andy Robertson... it's all just rubbish coming out. You knew before the game what was at stake and after the game it's no good saying "we'll regroup and be angry tomorrow." You should be angry for a long time.

They spoke before the game about creating history - they're creating history by playing as bad as that and letting their manager and supporters down. That was madness that tackle, the penalty, and the sending-off. You've got to do it in the right way. Being aggressive is part of football. Football is a physical game and they didn't lay a glove on them.

Yikes. Brutal from Keane, no holding back.

While some stayed until the very end, not all were patient.

You could see the dejection in the last post, but not all fans waited until the full-time whistle to look down.

Some Scotland fans streamed out of the Allianz Arena at half-time, they had enough.

I wonder where they went off to? Probably a boozer, right?

Maybe bed, who knows...

Oh dear, it just wasn't there night.

The scenes in Munich earlier were ones of excitement, jubilation, and hope. Every Scottish fan was having the time of their life.

How quickly things can change.

I don't really need to say much about how they are feeling now, these pictures tell the whole story.

Devastated.

I think the headline says it all.

Germany left Scotland in their dust this evening, and the Scots are still choking on it.

Mail Sport's Chief Sports Writer, Oliver Holt, has the pleasure of being in Munich this evening to see Germany race away with it.

It's fair to say, he thought it was deserved (as did we all).

To read his match story, click below:

Angus Gunn will want to forget this night as quickly as possible.

Look, he wasn't the reason Scotland lost tonight, they were just terrible all over the park.

But I must say, he didn't exactly help them. I can think of three of the goals off the top of my head that he should have done better with.

The first - Florian Wirtz's. The third - Kai Havertz's penalty, and the final one - Emre Can's long-range strike.

A better stopper keeps them out. It might sound harsh, but it's true...

It's fair to say, that was action-packed 90 minutes.

It had everything. A red card, a penalty, six goals, and even an own goal. You don't get many more eventful evenings than that.

A thoroughly enjoyable watch, unless you are Scottish...

Steve Clarke, Scotland head coach, speaking to ITV:

They showed everybody that when it comes to competitive games they're ready. Germany were outstanding and we couldn't catch them.

The first half ran away from us very quickly. We didn't give ourselves a foothold in the game. Defensively we weren't very good and with the ball, we weren't very good. A disappointing night.

The ten men in the second half were manful, worked hard, created chances, and managed to nick a goal, disappointing to lose the fifth goal in injury time.

What we need to do is still in front of us. That's what we have to focus on. Now it's all about reaction. Let's see how they react. Four points is the target in the next two games.

Now that is what domination looks like.

Scotland could not lay a glove on Germany all night. If it was a boxing match it would have been called off early doors.

But it wasn't and Germany pummeled them right until the end. 20 shots to Scotland's one. Rough.

The possession stats too, yikes.

Unsurprisingly, there has not been much love for the Scots in the comments.

Anonymous: I can't believe I just sat through a full German training session.

Anonymous: You have feel sorry for the Scotland fans, they support their team in their thousands but have very little chance of qualification. The gulf in quality is clear.

*He pretends to be shocked*

Nobody will be surprised that Jamal Musial has picked up the Man of the Match award.

He showed tonight why he is one of the most sought-after talents in world football. Everything he did was perfect.

Musiala just glides across the turf, everything looks effortless, but it isn't, it's all thought out and executed.

Germany have a diamond.

As you'd expect the Germans enjoyed the after-match celebrations.

Today could not have gone much better for them, and every single player has a smile on their face.

Same with the fans, although, one has pretty much a smile and nothing else. Brave outfit.

Andy Robertson, Scotland captain, speaking to ITV:

First half we just got it all wrong. Didn't really show up, weren't aggressive enough, and let good players on the ball. They had a game plan and we did and theirs worked a million times better. It wasn't because of the practice, it was because we didn't put it together on the pitch.

Second half, we're down to ten men. The lads dug in really well and we lost a sloppy goal at the end and you could have drawn the second half but it's no consolation.

Today was hugely disappointing. But you're playing the first game against the host nation and it doesn't get much tougher than that.

Their big players showed up and were excellent all over the park. They had an answer for everything. I don't think we've played to our maximum. We have to dust ourselves down We have five days to dust ourselves down and go again. We'll take tomorrow to be angry at ourselves and be disappointed and go again.

One, just one pass is all Toni Kroos failed to complete tonight...

We have become accustomed to Toni Kroos' class in the middle of the park, but this is just ridiculous.

To make 102 passes, and complete 101 is just a joke, it's beyond comprehension. He played 81 minutes too.

How is he retiring? He is at the top of his game still.

For all of Scotland's faults, Germany were magnificent today.

If that is the standard they play at all competition you have to think they will challenge for the trophy.

Coming into this tournament on home soil, they had their doubters, but they could not have played much better.

Julian Nagelsmann and his side will enjoy this one, but it's just the start.

A delight to watch.

That did not go as planned for Scotland.

In fact, it could not have gone much worse. They were just no match for Germany today, who were brilliant.

Steve Clarke's side only managed one shot all game, just the one, and that came at the very end.

The players look gutted, but they will have to get over this one very quickly.

Remember, there is plenty more football to be played.

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

A hideous start to Euro 2024 from Scotland, best viewed through the cracks of the fingers. No shots on target, no efforts on goal, no attacking threat and a really poor night for goalkeeper Angus Gunn. For all of them in truth.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Munich:

Fair play to the Scotland players, who all head over and stand and applaud to give their thanks to the travelling Tartan Army.  They've been hammered but none of them will ever forget these few days in Munich.

The nightmare is over for Scotland.

They have been outclassed this evening by a German contingent that will go very far in this competition.

After shipping four goals inside 70 minutes, the Scots thought they had the final say with a late consolation goal.

But after a tough night, they still didn't even get that with Germany adding a fifth in added time.

A night to forget, that's for sure.

A five-star performance from Germany!

Germany do have their fifth, and it's capped off in style by substitute Emre Can.

He was only called up in midweek, but he has just fired past Angus Gunn from distance.

Muted celebrations, but inside he will be buzzing.

Somehow, there are only three minutes of stoppage time.

Despite scoring in the end, the Tartan Army will be looking forward to that whistle.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Munich:

'You're not singing anymore' comes the cry from the Scotland fans. They've been kept quiet for most of the game but at least that has given them something to sing about.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Munich:

There are a lot of empty seats in the Scotland section now. The Beer Halls of Munich are calling them home…but at least they’ve seen a goal.

Out of nowhere!

It's not the prettiest of goals, but they will take it. Scott McKenna's header from a set-piece cannons back off Toni Rudiger and loops over Manuel Neuer.

Their brutal night has just gotten a little better at least, but it's only a consolation for Scotland.

This match is petering to an end now.

So, I reckon it's a good time to watch back Niclas Fullkrug's storming goal, it really is a belter.

I have never caught a ball that sweetly in my life, so I am envious. I could watch it on repeat.

Now it's Toni Kroos who gets a standing ovation.

As ever, he has been a midfield general tonight, and his final major tournament has gotten off to a cracker. Emre Can is on in his place now.

Scotland also make a switch. Ryan Christie makes way, and Lawrence Shankland is now on.

This isn't going to stop at four, is it?

Now it's Thomas Muller causing trouble, his header is hooked away by Andy Robertson at the back post.

This is relentless, Scotland just can't get out of their own box. Remember, they are yet to have a shot.

That didn't take long.

I was indeed correct, Niclas Fullkrug is offside, and VAR is remarkably quick to rule the goal out.

Premier League, take notice. That is how it is done.

And it's five...

That is a mess of a goal, and this is a disaster for Scotland as Niclas Fullkrug sneaks in at the back post and fires in his second via the hand of Angus Gunn.

Oh wait, he is definitely offside. VAR will check...

Jamal Musiala gets a standing ovation, and it is fully deserved.

He has been magical all night, dictating everything that Germany have done well tonight.

But Scotland can breathe a sigh of relief, sort of, he has played his last bit of the match - Thomas Muller comes on to replace him.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Munich:

The only consolation here for Scotland here is that goal difference may not count against them. If teams are tied in the group stages then the head-to-head results are used first.

So all still to play for against Switzerland and Hungary. Having said that, Steve Clarke’s team haven’t managed a single shot or corner here tonight. So something will have to change…

Germany aren't stopping at four, they want more.

Leroy Sane runs at the Scotland defence, but he runs out of room. The substitutions have somehow made Germany even better.

It really is quite frightening.

Now that is worthy of an 'ooooooft'!

That is a thumping finish from Niclas Fullkrug. The ball bounces into his path on the edge of the area and he smashes it into the top right corner.

I knew he could hit them, but boy can he hit them. This is turning into a rout, and Scotland have nothing to stop it.

I have just been roasted by a colleague for saying 'oooft' for a chance that goes over the bar.

The ball bounces out to Joshua Kimich and he connects well with it, but he can't keep it on target.

To be fair, the replay shows it was miles over, and I have been rightfully grilled.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Munich:

He'll have tougher nights in the tournament but this has been an absolute exhibition by Jamal Musiala. On a different level to the rest. The kind of player that you pay to watch.

That's his last action of the match, Florian Wirtz, he is replaced by Leroy Sane.

He is not the only one coming off, Goalscorer of the third, Kai Havertz, makes way for Niclas Fullkrug.

Just to let you know, Jonathan Tah was booked just before the substitutions were made.

Florian Wirtz is here, there, and everywhere.

The ball is clipped over the top and he looks set to flick it past Angus Gunn., but the Scotland keeper just about gets to it first.

The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder has been second only to Jamal Musiala for the player of the match, in my opinion.

I spoke way too soon just a moment ago...

Germany smell blood, and now Ikay Gundogan has a great chance blocked by Callum McGregor inside the six-yard box.

Yet again, It's Jamal Musiala who starts the move by driving into the box, he is simply imperious.

You sense another is coming...

That should be four, it really should!

The ball is clipped over to the back post for Florian Wirtz to strike, but he can't keep his effort down.

It was a tough chance, but a great one, and he should have at least got his strike on target, Wirtz.

This match has all gone a bit flat now.

Germany are just happy to keep possession, and Scotland don't want to concede any more goals.

I imagine this scoreline may not change the longer it stays like this.

Just as I say thats, Jamal Musiala has a go, but his effort from outside the area is blocked.

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

It's all about damage limitation for Steve Clarke now. Striker Che Adams has been withdrawn after a night of abject frustration and running down blind alleys.

Grant Hanley in on to shore up the defence. Any hope of Scotland testing Manuel Neuer looks to have gone....

What did I say about Antonio Rudiger and long shots?

He has a pop from deep yet again, but this time it actually causes some problems.

The ball dips just in front of Angus Gunn and he has to tip it wide to make sure.

The following corner comes to nothing, though.

Oh, stop that Jamal Musiala.

He is just taking the mickey out of the Scots. He glides past John McGinn like he isn't there before firing the ball into Florian Wirtz.

Wirtz doesn't get far, though, he gets wiped out by Anthony Ralston who gets booked for the challenge.

they have to be careful, Scotland, they don't want to be reduced to nine men...

Scotland have done more in two minutes already than they did in the whole of the first half.

They win a free-kick on the left-hand side which Scott McTominay fires powerfully into a dangerous area.

It causes problems, but Germany do get it clear.

Unsurprisingly, Steve Clarke has made a change at half-time.

Grant Hanley has come on, coming into the middle of the Scotland defence. Che Adams makes way.

Germany also make a change, Pascal Gross is on for Robert Andrich.

Anyway, the ball is rolling again.

Roy Keane, former Republic of Ireland international, on ITV:

We've spoke about how Scotland are trying to get a foothold in the game. They just couldn't get their passing together. They need that bit of quality. They look shell-shocked.

This will not be something Ryan Porteus will want to be known for.

But, it was a terrible challenge, and he was rightly sent off for it. He has just made it one hell of a challenge for his side.

He is the first Scot to be red-carded in a major tournament for 26 years. Yikes.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Munich:

No one really expected Scotland to win tonight but that was a miserable first half. Germany too quick and a step ahead throughout. Scotland haven't lacked the fight but they are seriously lacking in quality.

A word too for Jamal Musiala, who is an absolute baller in case you weren't aware already. This could get messy for Scotland after the break.

Not a bad way to score the first goal of a major tournament, is it?

Florian Wirtz just did what he always does, cause teams problems. This finish was simply brilliant, to score first time from that distance takes some doing.

It just kickstarted a half of domination, and maybe, a tournament of domination.

Watch, and enjoy (unless you're Scottish).

A 45 minutes to forget for Scotland.

The Tartan Army's hopes and dreams have practically been crushed within the space of one half.

Germany have been splendid, Jamal Musiala in particular, and are well worth their lead.

Goals from Florian Wirtz, Musiala himself, and Kai Havertz have all but won them this opening game already. It's been a doddle.

Oh yeah, and Scotland are down to 10 men too...

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

Ryan Porteous doing what Ryan Porteous does. Lunges into rash challenge on Gundogan and concedes a penalty, converted comfortably by Havertz.

Scotland will now play the second half three goals down with ten men facing the likelihood of a serious hammering. The Tartan Army would happily end this game now.

And that should be that.

Kai Havertz stutters and then calmly slots the spot kick past Angus Gunn. Was it ever in doubt?

This is only going one way now, you really do fear for the Scots.

It just gets worse for Scotland...

VAR has done its job, the referee looks at the screen, and a penalty is given.

If matters were already tough, Ryan Porteous is handed a red card for good measure.

It was a terrible challenge, and now Kai Havertz is standing over the spot.

How is that not 3-0???

Kai Havertz somehow does not turn home from close range, he completely misses the ball as Angus Gunn palms Ilkay Gundogan's header into his path.

But, wait, there could be a penalty here...

Ryan Porteous catches Gundogan really poorly, surely, that is going to be given, maybe even a red card?

Antonio Rudiger does like to have a go from distance on occasion, and he has just done so.

It's fair to say, it's not the best effort, it ends up comfortably in the arms of Angus Gunn.

At least they are 2-0 up... otherwise, he would be getting a telling-off.

Scotland need to try and get forward more.

Che Adams goes down under the challenge of Jonathan Tah and wins a free-kick, which is one of their first attacks in a long time.

But the set-piece is not very good, the ball ends up at the feet of Angus Gunn... Not great.

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

Steve Clarke's decision to leave Billy Gilmour out of his starting eleven will be questioned now. The Brighton midfielder has an ability to take the ball from defenders and keep it.

Scotland desperately need some composure and possession. Aiming long balls up the pitch to an isolated Che Adams won't cut it.

Jamal Musial is just a joke of a player, isn't he?

He has this Scotland side on strings. He dances around a couple of tackles before trying a quick give-and-go.

But the ball ends up in the path of Ilkay Gundogan before being cleared.

Musial really is just a joy to watch.

VAR seems to be much better at the Euros than in the Premier League.

Fans all get the information on a big screen, a welcome addition in my book.

Germany think they have another, the crowd do too...

Jamalk Musiala lobs Angus Gunn, but the whistle had already gone for a handball.

Not a bad finish, though...

OOOFT, now that is not the best challenge.

Robert Andrich launches into a nasty tackle on Scott McTominay and the Scots on the pitch are raging.

He gets a yellow card, and I think he just about gets away with one there. It was very naughty.

It's been overturned!

The foul is adjudged to have been made just outside the area, and I think that is the right decision.

It's a huge relief for Scotland, and the resulting free-kick from Kai Havertz ends up in the palms of Angus Gunn.

They are just about still in this...

Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear...

It just goes from bad to worse for Scotland. Ryan Christie brings down Jamal Musiala and the referee points to the spot.

is it actually in the area, though, VAR will check...

That is a typical tackle of frustration.

Birthday boy Callum McGregor lunges in on Ilkay Gundogan from behind, he is nowhere near the ball.

I'm surprised he is not booked...

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

The Tartan Army are sobering up quickly now. A nightmare start for Scotland, men against boys. The worry is that this gets messy now.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Munich:

What a goal. That’s all I am saying. What a goal.

The cameraman has just shown a Scotland fan with his head in his hands.

That will be how all of them are feeling, their side has not been at the races so far. Germany are tearing them apart.

A disastrous start.

Germany have another!

What a goal that is. Germany have just ripped Scotland to shreds and in style.

Jamal Musiala rifles the ball past Angus Gunn after being fed brilliantly by Kai Havertz.

I'm telling you, this could get messy...

The goal hasn't disheartened the Scotland fans, that's for sure.

Despite now seeing their side struggle on the pitch, they are trying to pick them back up off the floor.

A rendition of their national anthem is belted out, that is certainly a good way to get your side riled up.

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

An awful goal for Scotland to lose. They can’t give Florian Wirtz that much time and space to sweep a right foot strike low at goal. Angus Gunn looked to have done brilliantly to get down and get a right hand on it. In hindsight it simply wasn’t strong enough.

I agree, Aadam...

Scotland began sinking deep just before Florian Wirtz found the back of the net. They certainly can't do that now.

They just need to hang in there, but it's going to be one hell of a task now.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Munich:

Angus Gunn will be disappointed that he's not kept that Florian Wirtz's strike out and Scotland have a seismic task on their hands now.

This could be a long evening for Steve Clarke's side because Germany have been absolutely dominant in possession so far.

Right on cue...

That is a brilliant finish from Florian Wirtz, and he sends the Allianz Arena wild.

Just as we were praising Scotland, Joshua Kimmich slides the ball across to Wirtz on the edge of the area.

Wirtz doesn't even take a touch, he just fires it low and it is tipped onto the post by Angus Gunn, but it's not enough. It rolls in.

Just the start Germany wanted, and needed.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Munich:

Scotland are pretty much 5-4-1 when they don’t have the ball and that’s fine. The problems will arise if they concede because then they will have to chase the game, but they’ve started well here.

Scotland are looking bright, they are really up for this.

Andy Robertson has caused a couple of problems already on the left-hand side, he will be key tonight.

The hosts are yet to get going.

John McGinn getting stuck in nice and early, what else would you expect?

He looks confused as he gives away a foul on Mittelstadt, I'm not sure why, it was a foul.

Now there is offside, and then there is offside...

Florian Wirtz is through and forces Angus Gunn into a strong save after being sent through over the top by Toni Rudiger.

Actually, it was tighter than I thought. An early warning sign.

The months, or even years, of waiting is over.

There is one final roar after the teams huddle up for one final pep talk, and the hosts then get us underway.

Who will come out on top, Germany or Scotland? We will know in less than two hours...

Wow, I just got shivers.

The Flower of Scotland is belted out by all the players and their fans, and it truly is a sight to behold. The passion is rife.

Germany go next, and the Allianz Arena is a cauldron of noise, everyone but the Scots is singing.

And now, there is only one more thing to do...

The ceremony is over, now it's time to get the real show going.

The teams greet each other in the tunnel, but I'll tell you what, Andy Robertson is looking steely-eyed in there.

Heidi Beckenbauer - widow of German legend Franz - and Jurgen Klinsmann bring out the trophy to huge applause. It's a little emotional.

Then a huge roar breaks out as the teams arise from the tunnel, everybody is ready, we are just moments away now.

The atmosphere is electric!

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Munich:

Quite a colourful opening ceremony here with the speakers at full blast but the pack of Scotland fans behind the goal are doing their best to make themselves heard. 'No Scotland, no party' is providing the backdrop for this celebration.

This opening ceremony is, erm... colourful.

All that matters is that they are having a good time. I mean, these ceremonies are never my cup of tea.

The best way to describe this is like a twister mat. But the spots on the white background are actually people.

Red, blue, yellow, green, and much more.

The time for talking is almost over...

We are less than 15 minutes from kick-off, and I wish I could click a button that takes us to the start of the match.

However, we have to remember this is the first game, so you know what that means...

Yes, an opening ceremony is about to begin.

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

A video message from Sir Alex Ferguson on the big stadium screens. Scotland manager in Mexico in 1986 he knows how hard they've found it to win games on the big stage.

In 32 games at the World Cup and Euro finals since 1954 Scotland have only won six. Though this is the 50th anniversary of their win over Zaire on German soil at the 1974 World Cup. An omen?

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Munich:

Germany have had an uncertain build-up but they have a front four to rival anyone in the tournament.

The experience of Gundogan and the youthful excellence of Musiala and Wirtz all playing behind Havertz. Decent, that…

These two pictures made me chuckle.

I am committed to finding the funniest looks in the crowd, and it seems like moustaches have taken the crowd by storm.

I mean, they are funny, but it would have been funnier if they dyed their own.

Maybe next time...

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Munich:

It’s revealing to see how outnumbered the Scots are inside the Allianz Arena. There are plenty inside including many dotted around the neutral sections.

But just shows how many have come without tickets. This place – apart from one section – is pretty much full of white shirts.

The next step toward kick-off has been taken.

Both Germany and Scotland have taken to the turf at the Allianz Arena as they begin their final preparations.

Game faces are certainly on, there are some very stern looks among both camps.

They are not taking this lightly at all. Not surprising, is it?

They have made it!

The Tartan Army members that are lucky enough to have tickets have moved from Munich's city centre and into the Allianz Arena.

The atmosphere from their end is buzzing - the noise is deafening - and it will be all night.

It really is a sight to behold, a sea of blue!

Want to hear from the Tartan Army/ Well, you can here.

Mail Sport's Aadam Patel is in Munich and has been speaking to the fans ahead of their big night.

It's fair to say, every single one of them has a smile on their face.

Calum Crowe, Mail Sport, in Munich:

Some big calls from Steve Clarke in terms of his team selection. Scott McTominay comes back into midfield after missing both warm-up games due to a slight knock. The Manchester United man hasn’t played since the FA Cup Final last month but was Scotland’s top scorer in the qualifiers.

Che Adams gets the nod up front ahead of Lawrence Shankland and it will be vital that he holds the ball up and gets Scotland up the pitch tonight. His mobility and ability to press is a huge asset to Clarke’s side.

Ryan Christie will play just off the front and, like Adams, he offers terrific energy and is a goal threat. Billy Gilmour is the unfortunate one to miss out in midfield.

Grant Hanley has been a favourite of Clarke’s, but he has struggled with injuries this season and looked short of fitness in both warm-up matches. Ryan Porteous is given the nod ahead of Hanley at centre-back, with Celtic’s Anthony Ralston starting at right wing-back.

International football always features some funny old outfits, doesn't it?

Here are some of the best I have found inside the Allianz Arena, so far. My favourite are the two lads in Topps cardboard cutouts.

Very, very creative... but they don't look the happiest for whatever reason. Cheer up lads, it's Euro 2024!

Speaking of Toni Kroos, his final summer of football starts today.

His club career ended in European glory with Real Madrid, can his international tenure finish in the same way?

He came out of retirement for this tournament specifically, and he will certainly want to deliver.

But Callum McGregor won't be giving him any gifts (I'll leave).

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

Big calls from Steve Clarke in his team selection. As expected, Anthony Ralston plays right back, but Watford's Ryan Porteous is in for Norwich skipper Grant Hanley at the heart of defence. And Scotland's great hope Billy Gilmour sits this one out for Bournemouth's Ryan Christie.

Scott McTominay and Ryan Christie earn their 50th caps as Celtic captain Callum McGregor celebrates his 31st birthday by going toe to toe with Toni Kroos...

Here we go then...

Steve Clarke has named his first starting XI of Euro 2024, and there is a couple of interesting picks.

The three big guns, such as Scott McTominay, start. However, there is no place for Billy Gilmour who is on the bench.

Can this side get the job done?

Graeme Souness has just shared his support for fellow Scot Alan Hansen, who is currently in hospital with a serious illness, on ITV.

He was an absolute dream for a midfield player [to play with]. Just a super football player. I believe the best footballing centre-half ever. I mean that.

Close-up, he was a real quality performer and human being. He was a great guy. He's a strange breed as you have to search a long, long way to find anybody to say a bad word about him.

He's in the fight of his life now and we should all say a little prayer for him.

My first reaction when I saw the graphic was 'That is a strong team'.

That's because it is. A mix of youth and experience. Toni Kroos and Ilkay Gundogan marshalling the midfield and a sprinkle of talent with Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala.

I'm not sure Germany can go much stronger than that.

Here are the hosts. Boy, they look relaxed, don't they?

It's fair to say they arrived a little later than the Scotland squad, but they are here all the same.

It's a massive night for them on home soil, it will be interesting to see how they line up later.

We will find out very soon.

We told you Sir Alex Ferguson was in Munich, well, here is his message to the Scotland side.

He starts off by telling the fans he 'hopes they are enjoying themselves'.

Sir Alex, I can tell you with certainty that they are more than just enjoying themselves.

Reporters have been telling me of the troubles in Munich this evening, and here is another perspective.

Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack is not a happy man, and that is an understatement.

Cormack is currently waiting outside the ground, and it seems thousands of Scotland fans, including himself, are still waiting to get in.

Hopefully, the issue will get sorted out soon.

That is some challenge, Oliver!

It's nice to see our reporters are getting themselves nourished ahead of a busy night.

My dinner was not quite as nice, I just had a shop-bought BLT sandwich...

John McGinn, Scotland midfielder, speaking to ITV Sport:

Pretty calm actually, excited the same way everyone else is, but we have experienced these games before [but] we have not approached them in the right way.

Now it's about trying to forget the occasion and focus on the game. We have enough experience in there now to do that. We have been calm, we got a good rest this afternoon. We are raring to go.

It's all just got real.

The Scotland players have made their first port of call to check out the turf at the Allianz Arena.

They seem in high spirits. I mean, Andy Robertson is probably just smiling because he has such fond memories of the stadium.

He started the night Liverpool beat Bayern Munich 3-1 there five years ago. A magical night for the Reds.

They won the European Cup that year. Does that mean if Scotland win tonight...?

They can dream.

Stephen McGowan, Mail Sport, in Munich:

A bit of a panic for fans of both teams when the city underground ground to a halt earlier. Despite extra trains, every train is overcrowded. Signposting outside the Allianz Arena isn’t great either.

Underground systems... they always cause some problems.

Has anybody else just got that little more excited?

It really is getting real now, Scotland have arrived at the Allianz Arena, with over 90 minutes still to go until kick-off.

I wonder what is going through their heads right now? Surely, the nerves will start to jangle soon.

It's a huge day for them.

Julian Nagelsmann, Germany boss, speaking on Thursday:

When I look into the players' eyes, I can see they want a home win in our first game. I'm really looking forward to it. It's a very nice feeling.

I'm a little nervous myself. It's a big tournament. It's a special moment to be able to lead the team and lead the country.

Scotland are a very good team with a lot of flair. They play a lot of crosses and are very dangerous. Their players give everything and throw themselves into every challenge – that's the Scottish mentality.

We have our first fan-made trophy!

I love it when fans make their own, it's a huge thing in the FA Cup, and also international tournaments - as you can see.

With just under two hours to go until kick-off fans are now making their way over to the Allianz Arena.

Very soon, it will be packed...

It seems both sets of fans are uniting in their hatred for England.

I think it's fair to say, the rivalry between the Three Lions and the both of them is reciprocated.

England fans, what is the result you want to see tonight?

Sir Alex Ferguson was never going to miss this in a million years.

The legendary manager has travelled to Germany to watch his beloved Scotland, and by the looks of things, he is having a good time.

Imagine just stumbling across him in the streets of Germany, I bet the fans couldn't believe there eyes.

Remember, It's not just Scotland and Germany in this group.

Group A is set to be very tightly contested. Hungary and Switzerland make up the rest of it, and I can tell you, they are no slouches.

Both the Scots and the hosts will know it's imperative to get off to a good start tonight.

It's only fair that we look at the threats Germany possesses.

I'm going to stick to the attackers with this one, Germany have their fair share of talent up top.

Two spring to mind straight away. Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz.

Both play in the same position, but Julian Nagelsmann has been known to squeeze both into the side.

Why? Because they are both brilliant. Musiala's elegance and potency mixed with Wirtz's creativity is a match made in heaven.

Scotland will have to think of some way to stop the both of them, otherwise, they could be in trouble.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Munich:

I’ve spent the day around Munich and let me tell you, it is a proper Scottish takeover. From Marienplatz to the Olympiapark to the ground, the Tartan Army are everywhere in their kilts and with their bagpipes.

We’ve spoken to teachers, plumbers, students, the lot who have made their way here by plane, train, and car. No one was missing this. An estimated four per cent of the Scottish population is out here!

This might be Germany’s home tournament but for today, Munich is Scottish. And if Steve Clarke’s side somehow pull off a result, tonight could be epic. Roll on Euro 2024.

Right, everybody has their opinions, and I am about to share mine.

As I said before, this is the best Scotland side there has been for some time, and that's mainly because of three men.

Andy Robertson, John McGinn, and Scott McTominay.

The Tartan Army's hopes mainly rely on these three turning up in Germany.

Robertson was once hailed as the best left-back in the world when Liverpool were winning everything under Jurgen Klopp, and McGinn has just come off the back of a sensational season with Aston Villa.

And then there is McTominay. he may not always turn up for Manchester United, but boy, ho boy, the same cannot be said about Scotland.

When that blue jersey is on, he turns into a world-beater.

All three need to be in fine form tonight if they are to kick-start their campaign with a bang.

Steve Clarke, Scotland boss, speaking on Thursday:

The occasion will be for everybody else. For both sets of coaching staff and players, it's about the game, it's about how the game pans out. Germany will want to win, we want to win, everyone else can enjoy the occasion.

My family's here, they're going to enjoy the occasion and hopefully they enjoy the match as well. We've prepared. We've waited a long time to be ready for this. We've worked hard in preparation and hopefully you'll see the results of that on the pitch.

Now, this looks like a right laugh.

I told you Scotland are having the time of their lives, and just look at this, they really are.

Mail Sport's Aadam Patel is in Munich among the Tartan Army faithful, and I would be shocked if he wasn't joining in with the chants.

What a song, by the way, the original by Baccara is a belter!

If you have been reading our coverage today, you will already know what I am about to say.

Scotland fans have taken over Munich, they are situated everywhere you look. A sea of kilts and blue.

There are simply so many fans, and they are having the time of their lives. Some of the outfits they are wearing are brilliant too.

Whatever the result is tonight, you can bet your bottom dollar that the Tartan Army will have a good time no matter what.

They have got this Euro 2024 party started!

It’s not a bad way to start the tournament, is it?

On one side, you have Germany, the hosts. They will be desperate to kick off their campaign with a win on home soil.

The Germans have been knocked out in the group stage in two of their last three major tournaments. In the other, they lost to England in the last 16…

It’s fair to say they are not the side they once were, and tonight is not an easy start for them against Scotland.

This is the best side to hail from north of the border in a long time, they are certainly up for it, and so are their fans.

Tonight is set up to be a cracker, and I for one cannot wait for it to get started.

The moment Scotland fans have been waiting for has arrived.

I feel like an excited young boy on the morning of Christmas day just eagerly awaiting to open my presents.

That’s what international tournaments, such as the European Championships, are to football fans, and the Scotland fans are currently partying like it’s their Christmas do.

The excitement, the nerves, and every other emotion in between, that’s what the Tartan Army will be feeling right now.

In just three hours, they will watch their side open the European Championships against hosts Germany. I bet they barely slept last night… I know I didn’t.

I think it’s about time we get this show on the road.