The opening match of the Euros sees Scotland take on hosts Germany. Ahead of the game, The Guardian published an opinion piece arguing that this Scottish team will present a fresh image and has the potential to make history.
The article states: Scotland, appearing in their fourth Euro finals, are not here to be mere spectators; they’ve had enough of watching continental tournaments from home. Their past record of never progressing from a Euro group stage no longer weighs on this untypical squad, managed by Clarke.
Illustrating the “untypical”: Under Clarke, a typical Scotland wouldn’t have defeated Serbia on penalties to qualify for the last Euros; nor would they have pulled off a legendary victory in Oslo against Norway last June with goals in the 87th and 89th minutes. Clarke and his players have ample reason and examples to defy clichés, even as he acknowledges that his team has little to lose, with the worst-case scenario being elimination at the group stage – a fate already endured by previous generations. However, in this expanded Euros, if Wales and Northern Ireland could advance from their groups, so can Scotland.
Scotland won’t be intimidated by Germany, and all the pressure will be on the hosts in the opener. Nevertheless, Scotland must respect Switzerland, whose tournament experience and track record demand attention. The same applies to Hungary, as their clash in Stuttgart could ultimately influence the group’s qualification picture.
Clarke’s preparations have been disrupted by injuries, but the core of his team – including Tierney, Robertson, McGregor, Gilmour, McInnes, and McTominay – remains intact. In the opener, Gilmour might be overshadowed by the legendary Toni Kroos, but not overwhelmed. Scotland can use the Germany fixture as a valuable test of their mettle, preparing them for the rest of the group stage.
Regardless, the fans’ enthusiasm speaks volumes. At 60, Clarke’s biggest achievement to date has been winning back the support of fans who had lost interest due to years of underperformance. The mass turnout of Scottish supporters in Germany reflects a renewed sense of hope.