Sabasports Match Preview
Euro 2024: Germany vs Scotland
Kickoff Time: 2024-06-15 03:00 (HKT)
Source: REUTERS/Fabrizio Bensch
In the 2024 European Championship, Germany, as the host, remain one of the contenders to win the championship. Judging by the German squad, the three World Cup-winning veterans Manuel Neuer, Toni Kroos, and Thomas Muller continue to anchor the team, while the rising stars Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala are also included, ensuring their overall strength is still among the best in the world. It is noteworthy that this European Championship also marks the twilight of Toni Kroos’ illustrious career. Under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, Germany have gradually regained their form. In recent friendlies, Germany have even defeated France, Netherlands and Greece consecutively, further emphasizing their formidable prowess. Germany have not succumbed to a talent drought; they simply need time to fine-tune their strategies and rediscover their willpower and fighting spirit.
Historically, Scotland have not achieved remarkable results in the European Championship, and this is only their fourth appearance in the finals. Most of the Scotland squad plays in the English league, including Liverpool right-back Andrew Robertson, Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, and Aston Villa captain John McGinn. In the previous European Championship qualifiers, Scotland were placed in a group with Spain, Norway, Georgia, and Cyprus. Not only did they defeat Norway despite having Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard in their ranks, but they also managed to overcome Spain. Eventually, Scotland secured a spot in the European Championship by finishing second in the group with a record of five wins, two draws, and one loss. This performance was quite noteworthy. However, in several friendly matches this year, Scotland’s form has been inconsistent. After adopting a three-center-back formation, they suffered defeats against Netherlands and Northern Ireland, with only a win against Gibraltar, a perceived weaker opponent.
Although Germany’s recent competitive performances have been less than satisfactory, as the host of this event, Germany still hold high hopes. Moreover, the return of Kroos has also boosted their morale. Additionally, considering their overall strength and the momentum displayed in friendlies, Germany appear to be a clear favorite against Scotland. Facing an average Scotland in the opening match, playing on home soil, Germany are expected to secure a victory and start their campaign on a positive note.
Germany’s Last 5 Games: WDWWL
24-06-08 Germany 2-1 Greece
24-06-04 Germany 0-0 Ukraine
24-03-27 Germany 2-1 Netherlands
24-03-24 France 0-2 Germany
23-11-22 Austria 2-0 Germany
Scotland’s Last 5 Games: DWLLD
24-06-08 Scotland 2-2 Finland
24-06-04 Gibraltar 0-2 Scotland
24-03-27 Scotland 0-1 Northern Ireland
24-03-23 Netherlands 4-0 Scotland
23-11-20 Scotland 3-3 Norway
Head To Head Record:
15-09-08 Scotland 2-3 Germany
14-09-08 Germany 2-1 Scotland
03-09-10 Germany 2-1 Scotland
03-06-07 Scotland 1-1 Germany
Prediction: Germany to win