On a night when Germany danced circles around Scotland with a 5-1 drubbing, the goals were just the tip of the iceberg.
Beyond the obvious scoreboard drama, the match was peppered with moments so juicy they’d make a tabloid blush.
Here are ten cheeky incidents you probably missed while Germany strutted their stuff on the Euro 2024 stage.
1. Opening Ceremony Spectacle
Before the football even began, fans were treated to a vibrant opening ceremony in Munich. The entire pitch was covered with dancers in colourful outfits, and fans in the stands held up placards, creating an electrifying atmosphere. It was a fitting start to Euro 2024, showcasing the passion and excitement that awaited.
- Tartan Army’s Anthem
The Scotland fans made their presence felt during the national anthems. The rendition of “Flower of Scotland” was so powerful that it felt like Hampden Park.
This moment of unity and pride was a highlight for the traveling supporters, even if the match didn’t go their way.
- Wirtz’s Clinical Finish
Florian Wirtz’s opening goal in the 10th minute was a textbook example of precision.
Kimmich’s cross-field pass to Kroos set up the play, and Wirtz’s low shot into the bottom corner was unstoppable, despite Gunn’s best efforts. The intricate build-up play was a testament to Germany’s tactical and technical superiority.
- Musiala’s Brilliance
Jamal Musiala was a constant thorn in Scotland’s side. His goal to make it 2-0 was a result of a beautifully executed team move. Gundogan’s through ball found Havertz, who unselfishly set up Musiala.
The young Bayern Munich star’s composure and precision finish demonstrated why he is considered one of the brightest talents in European football.
- Porteous’ Costly Challenge
Just before half-time, Ryan Porteous’ wild challenge on Gundogan not only resulted in a penalty but also saw him sent off.
This moment was pivotal as it put Scotland down to ten men and allowed Kai Havertz to extend Germany’s lead to 3-0. Porteous’ mistake effectively ended any hopes of a Scottish comeback.
- Scotland’s VAR Relief
There was a tense moment for Scotland in the first half when Ryan Christie’s foul on Musiala was initially thought to be inside the penalty area.
VAR overturned the decision, awarding a free kick instead. This brief respite, however, did little to change the game’s outcome, but it was a crucial call that momentarily eased the pressure on Scotland.
- Fullkrug’s Offside Goal
Niclas Fullkrug thought he had scored Germany’s fifth goal when he finished from close range, only for it to be ruled offside.
The moment arrived minutes after Fullkrug had extended Germany’s lead with a well-struck shot to the top corner.
It would have been an excellent brace for him on his European Championship debut but closer observation showed VAR was correct in disallowing the goal.
- Scottish Humour Amid Defeat
Even in the face of a heavy defeat, Scottish fans displayed their trademark humour.
After their late consolation goal was awarded following a VAR check, they chanted “You’re not singing anymore” at the German fans. This moment of levity amidst the on-field struggle exemplified the spirit of the Tartan Army.
- Rüdiger’s Comical Own Goal
Scotland’s only goal came in bizarre fashion when Robertson’s free-kick deflected off Scott McKenna’s head and then off Antonio Rüdiger, who inadvertently nodded it into his own net.
This comical mix-up was a rare defensive lapse in an otherwise dominant German performance.
- Emre Can’s Finishing Touch
The final goal of the game came in added time when substitute Emre Can placed a shot from the edge of the “D” into the bottom right corner, thanks to a slight deflection off Hanley.
Interestingly, Can was on vacation two days before Germany’s opening game against the Scots. He was called up as a late replacement for Aleksandar Pavlović, who had been ruled out of the tournament due to tonsillitis.
Can’s goal capped off a dominant display by Germany and underlined their clinical finishing and squad depth, a worrying sign for future opponents.