From Methil to Munich, Coatbridge to Cologne, Stirling to Stuttgart and every European footballing backwater in between, the Tartan Army have waited 26 years for their date with destiny. By the time Steve Clarke’s side get the Euro 2024 tournament under way against hosts Germany later, that 9,488 day wait to see the team play an international tournament on foreign soil will be over. The party is well under way in Bavaria , where Munich has been transformed into a Scottish enclave, soundtracked by bagpipes and songs about the midfield maestro who is better than Zidane.
The carnival atmosphere has even captured the imagination of those backing the host nation. Patrick and Ronnie, from Dusseldorf, are enjoying a full German for breakfast in Munich. There’s no black pudding or tattie scone on offer, so instead, they are tucking in to giant salted pretzels along with coffee and a few steins of lager.
Ronnie says the city has so far been "peaceful", adding: "But it is early so we will see." He is nevertheless confident it will be a "beautiful atmosphere" no matter the result. "Scottish people are very happy and friendly as well so I think it will be very good party, Ronnie adds.
Tickets for the match later were among the first to be snapped up when they went on sale to fans. Scotland fans have a habit of finding a way to go above and beyond their allotted allocation, but for those unable to get their hands on a brief, a free fan zone is being hosted at Munich’s Olympiapark. T.
