The hosts, Germany, fired a clear warning shot on Friday night in the opening match of the UEFA Euro 2024.

On Friday, Germany was ruthless as they thumped Scotland 5-1 at the Allianz Arena in Germany to kick-off their quest for a record fourth title.

Florian Wirtz opened the scoring for Germany in the 10th minute of the game before Jamal Musiala doubled the lead some nine minutes later.

On the stroke of half time, the Arsenal player, Kai Havertz, netted a penalty for Germany's third goal.

Niclas Füllkrug found the back of the net in the 68th.

With three minutes remaining of regulation time, Scotland finally got on the scoreboard, albeit through an Antonio Rüdiger own goal.

Deep into stoppage time, Emre Can, rubbed salt into the wounds of the Scots with the German's fifth goal.

Meanwhile, the tournament will start gaining momentum on Saturday with three games scheduled to be played.

At 15:00, Hungary will face Switzerland at the RheinEnergieStadion in Köln. At 18:00, Spain will be in action against Croatia at Olympiastadion in Berlin.

At 21:00, the defending champions, Italy, will begin their campaign against Albania at Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport