Germany Targets Win In Euro 2024 Opener To Elevate Team Spirit And Fan Excitement

A strong beginning in Euro 2024 is crucial for host Germany to elevate team morale and generate national enthusiasm, according to tournament director Philipp Lahm. The German news agency DPA reported Lahm's comments on Friday. Germany is set to open the month-long Euro 2024 next Friday in Munich against Scotland.

Germany has faced early exits in recent major tournaments, losing their first match at the last three significant events. They were eliminated in the group stage of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and exited in the round of 16 at the last Euros in 2021. "You have seen in the last few tournaments that if you don't start well you immediately come under pressure and then it is difficult," Lahm told DPA. "That's why I just want a clear victory that sparks enthusiasm in our country."

Lahm has personal experience with successful tournament starts. He scored Germany's first goal in a 4-2 victory over Costa Rica during the 2006 home World Cup, where the team reached the semi-finals. He also captained Germany to the 2014 World Cup title, beginning with a 4-0 win over Portugal.

Lahm expressed hope that Germany would not be as inefficient as they were in a recent 0-0 draw with Ukraine. He noted that it was beneficial for coach Julian Nagelsmann to have another week to prepare the team, including a final tune-up match later Friday against Greece. This preparation time is especially important as Champions League winners Toni Kroos and Antonio Rüdiger, along with finalists Niclas Füllkrug and Nico Schlotterbeck, only joined the squad earlier in the week.

"They will make good use of the last week so that they can start the opening game against Scotland on a positive note. A good start would be very important," Lahm said.

With inputs from WAM