'Respect everyone, fear no one': Scotland optimistic of win against Germany in Euros 2024 opener

Scottish fans are out in droves in the southern Germany city of Munich as the excitement ramps up ahead of the European Championship curtain raiser on Friday. 

Host nation Germany plays Scotland at the Allianz Arena in the first match of the month-long tournament that takes place in 10 cities. 

At a press conference on Thursday, Scotland's head coach Steve Clarke said he'd instilled in his team the mantra "respect everyone and fear no one" and said he was confident his side would deliver the goods as Scotland looks to qualify for the knockout stages of a major tournament for the first time.

"We know it's a big game. But for us it’s the opening game in a four-team section, three matches. We know what we have to do to qualify out the section and that's all we are focused on. The enormity of the opening game and whatever, that's a little bit of a sideshow and hopefully we don't get too involved in that," he said.

"We believe we can get a result every time we go to the pitch. Otherwise, what's the point of going to the pitch? So we've prepared well, we think we're ready. And hopefully you see that tomorrow night." 

"We’ve waited a long time for this game," said Scotland captain Andy Robertson. He said he knew the opening match was going to be a challenge but it was one that was "on the horizon now." He also thanked the Tartan Army for their support.

"They’ve pushed us over the line at times and we hope they enjoy themselves over the next ten, eleven days because, you know, if we can perform the way we can perform, then we’ll give them plenty to shout about. And if we can do that, then, you know, hopefully they can stay in Germany that little bit longer," he said.

Scotland showed during the qualifying campaign it can surprise, in