Germany and Scotland go head to head in the opening match at Euro 2024. Both nations will be hoping for a positive start to the tournament. The emphasis is on Germany, with most of the 66,000 fans in Munich cheering on the hosts.
Germany vs. Scotland: Initial Situation
3x Euro winners Germany are among the favourites this year. Qualifying automatically as the host nation, Julian Nagelsmann’s squad is full of in-form players. Many fans are predicting that Germany will improve upon their poor performances at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup.
Scotland failed to win a match at Euro 2020. This was their first showing in the finals since 1996. The Scots come into the tournament in poor form. Steve Clarke’s men are without a win in seven games.
Germany Stats & Form
Germany come into the tournament off the back of impressive wins against France and the Netherlands. However, they had previously failed to beat Mexico, Turkey and Austria. Such results show the inconsistency of Germany at the moment. After qualifying for Euro 2024 automatically as the host nation, a lack of competitive action could hinder Germany this summer.
Scotland Stats & Form
Scotland lost just one qualifying match, despite being drawn alongside Spain, Norway, Georgia and Cyprus. However, their impressive form hasn’t lasted. Their run of matches without a win extended to seven following a 1-0 defeat at home to Northern Ireland in March. Scotland were beaten 4-0 in the same month.
An opening match against Germany is a daunting prospect for the Tartan Army. Manager Steve Clarke has some big decisions to make ahead of kick-off. This was the case even before midfielder Lewis Ferguson was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
Germany – Scotland: Head to Head
The two nations have not met since 2015. Germany won 3-2 at Hampden Park that day, having also won the reverse fixture 12 months earlier. Thomas Muller and Ilkay Gundogan were the goalscorers that day. The duo are almost certain to be named in the Germany squad for Euro 2024.
Scotland has never beaten Germany in a competitive fixture. They did overcome Germany 1-0 in a friendly back in 1999. With Germany unbeaten in four matches against Scotland, the head-to-head records are firmly in their favour.
Germany – Scotland Odds
Germany is the overwhelming favourite to beat Scotland in the opening match at Euro 2024. You can back the hosts at odds of 1/4, while a draw is priced at 5/1. If you fancy Scotland to cause a major upset, you can take advantage of 12/1 odds. Over 2.5 total goals during the 90 minutes looks an appealing option. This market is priced at 8/11.
Betting tip and prediction: Germany – Scotland (14/06/2024)
It is difficult to look beyond anything other than a German victory in this Group A clash. While Scotland proved a difficult team to beat during qualifying, they will likely be on the back foot from the opening minutes in Munich. Scotland has struggled defensively of late, conceding four against the Netherlands in a recent friendly.
This is why we have recommended the over 2.5 total goals market. The likes of Musiala, Wirtz and Havertz will cause the Scottish defence problems. The experience of Kross, Kimmich and Rudiger behind them should provide ample cover.