European Super Football

 Norway 0 - 1 Spain  Spain and Scotland have qualified from Group A and will take part in Euro 2024. With a win in Norway on Sunday, Spain secured a spot at Euro 2024, as well as helping Scotland qualify from Group A. In the second half, Barcelona midfielder Gavi scored to help the 2008 and 2012 European champions advance to the championships with two games left of qualifying.  Erling Haaland's Norway last appeared at a major tournament in Euro 2000, can now only potentially qualify through play-offs.  On the night, Spain barely allowed Manchester City striker Haaland a sniff all night long on what turned into a frustrating night for the Norwegians.  Gavi eventually fired Spain into the lead just after half-time. The midfielder pounced in Norway's area when Mikel Oyarzabal's shot was deflected into his path and gave him a straightforward goal.  Quick reaction from Norway and Spain Ronnie from Oslo is unhappy with the fact that Norway haven't finished in...

 Germany 5 - 1 Scotland There were six goals in the first game of Euro 2024. Unfortunately for Scotland, they only managed one. Pictures from the Euro 2024 Opening Ceremony The atmosphere at Allianz Arena was electric right from the start. Just ten minutes in, Florian Wirtz effortlessly found the net to open the scoring. Shortly after, Jamal Musiala unleashed a powerful shot that almost broke both Angus Gunn’s net and the hearts of the stunned Scottish fans behind the goal. Before half-time, Kai Havertz made it three from the penalty spot, following Ryan Porteous’ red card which left Scotland facing an uphill battle. Substitute Niclas Fullkrug added a fourth for Germany with a high shot into the net, though Antonio Rudiger’s late deflected own goal offered a glimmer of hope for Scotland. Their joy was short-lived, however, as Emre Can silenced the Scottish supporters deep into injury time. This result marked the biggest win in the opening game of a European Championships. ...

Scotland 0 - 1 Hungary Scotland had needed a win to secure a spot in the knockout stage of a major tournament for the first time. Hungary kept their hopes alive with a win. The match had seemed destined to end in a frustrating, goalless draw until Hungary scored a 100th-minute winner. Frankly, neither team looked deserving of a place in the last 16 based on their performances. Scotland struggled to make an impact. Hungary's attacks usually fizzled out 25 yards from goal until stoppage time, when the game took on a frenetic pace.  Steve Clarke and the Tartan Army would have been left gutted by the outcome, but the harsh truth is that over the three games, they fell short of the required standard. Scotland had vowed to have learned from their Euros experience three years ago. They fell just short again. There are now bigger, more longer-term questions and problems that need solving by the Scottish FA. A closer look at what happened in Stuggart Despite the nerve-wracking tens...

 Scotland 2 - 0 Spain It was another raucous at Hampden Park as Scotland stunned Spain. Scott McTominay scored a double as the home side took control of their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign. The Manchester United midfielder, who also netted twice in Saturday's 3-0 victory over Cyprus, fired in the opener at Hampden Park after just seven minutes. This sent the Scotland crowd into an absolute frenzy. Spain looked for an immediate response. Dani Ceballos threaded a pass through to Mikel Oyarzabal but he could not get the ball under control and it rolled out. Scotland were then inches from a second in the 15th minute. John McGinn saw Stuart Armstrong on the edge of the box. However, his shot went just wide of the post. Ryan Christie and Lyndon Dykes also went close as Spain struggled to make their mark against Steve Clarke's side that looked a different level to the side that missed out on qualification to the World Cup. 🏁 HALF TIME AT HAMPDEN PARK!! @SEFutbol goes to the l...

"Yes sir, I can boogie..." Can Scotland achieve what they've never done before by advancing from the group stage in a major tournament? After successfully qualifying from a challenging group that included Spain and Norway, hopes were high for such an achievement. However, Steve Clarke’s team then endured a run of seven games without a win (before a hard-fought victory against Gibraltar). While defeats to France, England, the Netherlands, and Spain were expected, losing to Northern Ireland was more concerning. For the first time in a while, the team appeared deflated. This dip in confidence might not be entirely detrimental. Overconfident Scots often struggle. In 1978, the team left for the World Cup amid great fanfare but failed to deliver. Clarke has assembled a capable side that should believe they can finish above Hungary and Switzerland, though they still lag behind the group’s standout team, Germany, in terms of overall ability. ECQ: Scotland shock Spain (eur...

Norway 1 - 2 Scotland There was a great finish to give Scotland a classic smash-and-grab victory and send their fans into party mode during a sun-dappled Oslo evening. With three minutes of normal time, Steve Clarke’s side trailed to Erling Haaland’s 59th goal of the season, and they were staring at their first defeat in Euro 2024 qualifying. Unlikely and sensational late goals from Lyndon Dykes and Kenny McLean maintained Scotland's perfect start to Euro 2024 qualifying as Steve Clarke's side stunned Norway in Oslo. Euro 2024 Qualifying (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com) A closer look at the match Erling Haaland's goal from the penalty spot just after the hour mark looked to have given the more lively Norwegians a victory which would have revived their Group A hopes. However, out of nothing Dykes pounced on a mistake with three minutes of normal time remaining to snatch what seemed like a brilliant point for Scotland. Then, barely two minutes later substitute McLean sw...

Scotland v Greece Preview A win here would be a huge statement of intent from Scotland as they look to secure a place in next summer’s World Cup. Author | Alan White Stadium | Hampden Park Let's explore where Scotland's game against Greece might be won and if they have to what it takes to reach their first World Cup since 1998. Fortress Hampden? Hampden Park has history, but it is not always easy to say it has heart and soul when Scotland play there. There have been thunderous exceptions, of course. The 2-0 victory over Spain in March 2023 , complete with Rodri’s tears, remains unforgettable, as does the storm-lashed triumph over Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s Georgia a few months later, inspired by Scott McTominay. Scotland v Spain | Euro 2024 Qualifying An arena unloved by many, Hampden still has the capacity to shake on its best nights. Scotland will need one of those on Thursday, when Greece arrive in Glasgow desperate to revive their own World Cup hopes while denting those of the...

Scotland 1 - 1 Switzerland Scotland entered this match with one aim: to avoid being sent home with regrets.  A loss in Cologne would have left them needing unlikely help from other groups, even if they managed to beat Hungary in Stuttgart on Sunday. Now, Scotland know a win against Hungary would bring them to a four-point total, likely enough to secure a coveted spot in the tournament knockout stages for the first time. The Scots bounced back admirably from their 5-1 thrashing by Germany. However, as the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, they may felt they deserved more. Just 102 seconds in, John McGinn won Scotland a corner, showing more attacking intent than in their painful loss in Munich on Friday. Scott McTominay took the set-piece, but it was deflected by a defender. Euro 2024 news and stories  Scotland's breakthrough came from a Swiss corner. The Swiss hesitated after taking it short, allowing Scotland to counter. Billy Gilmour, back in the starting lineup, ...

Scotland 3 - 0 Cyprus A late double from Scott McTominay secured Scotland a comfortable winning start to their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign at home to Cyprus. John McGinn's close-range finish was a reward for a dominant first-half display. Substitute McTominay then eased increased nervousness around Hampden Park with a clinical 87th-minute finish. The Manchester United midfielder added his second moments later. Steve Clarke had billed it as a must-win game against Group A's lowest seeds and it was job done in that sense. However, despite their first winning start to a Euros qualifying campaign since 2006, they know that improvement will be needed as Spain visit on Tuesday. Yes, sir, I can boogie The dawn of a new qualifying campaign brought the Tartan Army to Hampden Park full of optimism. The atmosphere was amazing at times and brought back memories of some other incredible nights in Glasgow. Check out this video below. What are the fans saying? Darren McThomas has been...

Let's explore the best reaction to Scotland's thrashing against Germany You can read the European Super Football match report here:   Euro 2024: Germany win opening game  Katie, a Scotland fan, said: "In a match where the Scotland players needed to exceed expectations and be nearly flawless, I must admit I am very disappointed. I felt the keeper could have done better with the first goal; it was somewhat of a gift. But overall, Scotland lacked the bravery I expected. "In the qualifying stage against Spain, we saw that they could play bravely. However, this time, it seemed they had an inferiority complex. All the players were below par, and that is what concerns me. The players need to bounce back, but can they? That performance by Germany took the wind out of our sails." Liam, a Manchester United fan, watched the match as a neutral: "Germany were brilliant in the first 20 minutes. They conceded but it’s a good sign from their perspective that their p...

Gibraltar 0 - 2 Scotland With the squad enduring a seven-game winless streak and grappling with injuries, it took Scotland until the 58th minute to break the deadlock against the world’s 203rd ranked team. Ryan Christie finally opened the scoring, lashing the ball home just before the hour mark in frustration. Che Adams added a decisive second goal late on, securing a much-needed, if uninspiring, win in Portugal. The 2,000 travelling Scotland fans shouldn’t have had to wait so long for their team to score, given the volume of chances created against their lowly opponents. Grant Hanley and James Forrest, in particular, squandered golden opportunities, while Christie and Kenny McLean also could have done better inside the box. Iconic Euros Moments: Throwback to England v Scotland (1996)  ECQ: Scotland shock Spain ECQ: Spain and Scotland qualify for Euro 2024 By half-time, Scotland had registered 20 shots, most from inside the penalty area, but hit the target only twice. Gibraltar...

Germany 2 - 0 Hungary Jamal Musiala was on form again as Germany continued their strong start to Euro 2024 with a win over Hungary, securing their spot in the knockout stages in the process. There was a fantastic atmosphere pre match in Stuggart.  The Bayern Munich forward was impressive throughout the match, scoring midway through the first half and nearly netting another with a powerful shot that just missed the post. He received a standing ovation when he was substituted late in the second half. Hungary were unhappy with the opening goal, claiming Ilkay Gundogan fouled defender Willi Orban before setting up Musiala to score . However, a video assistant referee (VAR) review upheld the decision, allowing Musiala and his teammates to celebrate in front of the Hungarian supporters. Hungary thought they had equalised just before half-time, but Roland Sallai’s header from a rebound was ruled offside. Germany extended their lead in the second half when former Manchester City playe...

Scotland 2 - 2 Finland Scotland head off to Euro 2024 in a disappointing fashion after squandering a two-goal lead to draw with Finland at Hampden Park. An own goal from Arttu Hoskonen lifted spirits following a subdued start before Lawrence Shankland nodded home, ramping up the celebrations. The Tartan Army's party was put on hold when Benjamin Kallman pulled one back, and an 85th-minute penalty - awarded by the video assistant referee (VAR) - was slotted home by Oliver Antman. All eyes now turn to Munich as Scotland prepares for the daunting yet exhilarating task of taking on Germany, one of the tournament favourites, in their own backyard next Friday. You can watch the highlights of the match in the video below. The footage is from the Premier Sports YouTube account.  The second half came to life after a poor first 45 minutes. The second half was much better. Hoskonen's own goal might have been a touch lucky, but Shankland's headed finish rounded off the type of ...

Germany is preparing to host and take part in Euro 2024 How far can they go? They are aiming to win their first major title in a decade as they host Euro 2024. Their Group A opener against Scotland marks the beginning of what the country hopes will be a month-long celebration for the country Despite Germany's impressive history of four World Cups and three European Championships, their reputation has been somewhat marred by a string of failures since their 2014 World Cup victory in Brazil. The team is relying on a mix of exceptionally talented young players, such as Jamal Musiala and newly-crowned Bundesliga champion Florian Wirtz, alongside seasoned veterans like 2014 World Cup winners Manuel Neuer, Thomas Müller, and Toni Kroos. Challenges in the run-up Between March and September 2023, Germany lost four out of five games against mediocre opponents and failed to secure any wins. Hansi Flick, who also saw his team crash out of the group stages at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, ...

Denmark v Scotland preview Could we be seeing the beginning of Steve Clarke's last dance as Scotland boss? Author | Alan White Stadium | Parken Scotland players celebrate a memorable win over Denmark in 2021 Scotland look in danger of stalling under Steve Clarke, who is still searching for a first World Cup qualification of this century. The March international break brought fresh disappointment as they were relegated from their Nations League group after a chastening defeat to Greece . The players building their careers and thriving in Italy Scotland have retained individual quality, with the likes of Scott McTominay central to their hopes. Like the former Manchester United midfielder, Billy Gilmour is also a league winner with Napoli , while Lewis Ferguson captains Bologna and lifted the Coppa Italia last season.  Teenager Lennon Miller has already traded Motherwell for Udinese after making his international debut earlier this year. Che Adams is starting his second season ...

Scotland 2 - 3 Poland Scotland's tough 2024 continued in heartbreaking fashion as Poland were awarded a stoppage-time penalty, crushing a spirited Nations League comeback at Hampden. Billy Gilmour and Scott McTominay scored second-half goals to revive Scotland after Sebastian Szymanski's long-range strike and Robert Lewandowski's expertly-taken penalty put the visitors ahead. However, as Steve Clarke's men pushed for a late winner , Nicola Zalewski was brought down by a reckless challenge from Grant Hanley. Zalewski, who had also won the earlier penalty, stepped up to slot home the decisive goal in the 97th minute. Scotland, who made a tame exit from this summer's Euros with just one point from three group games, now face a daunting trip to Portugal on Sunday. They have managed only one win in 13 matches in 2024, suffering five defeats. The manner in which this game ended was hard to believe, especially given Scotland’s poor first-half performance.  Clarke'...

The players to watch out for at Euro 2024 In the first of several Euro 2024 preview articles, this story will explore some of the players that will be looking to have an impact in Germany. Johan Bakayoko - Belgium  This player began to make a significant contribution to PSV early in 2023, and very quickly, he had managed to score seven goals and provide five assists. With fantastic speed and outstanding one-on-one skills, he is a constant threat to defenders as a traditional right-winger. He recently made his international debut for Belgium in March and could shine for his country in Germany.  Cole Palmer - England Despite scoring in the 2023 UEFA Super Cup, Palmer made a brave decision to leave Manchester City during the summer. This decision has paid off as he is now regularly starting and scoring goals for Chelsea. Palmer is not only important in pressing off the ball but also a creative force on it, whether he is playing centrally or coming off the right flank. You ca...

 England 3 - 0 Bosnia-Herzegovina Cole Palmer celebrated his first start for England by setting Gareth Southgate's team on the path to victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina at St James' Park, as preparations for Euro 2024 continued. England's heavily rotated side struggled to find their rhythm in a scrappy match. Still, they eventually broke the deadlock an hour in when Palmer confidently converted a penalty after Ezri Konsa was fouled during a corner. Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold secured the win with a fine volley at the far post five minutes before full-time. Harry Kane then added a third from close range, giving the final scoreline a more convincing look. Iconic Euros Moments: Throwback to England v Scotland (1996)  Iconic Euros moments: Throwback to England v Italy (2021)  Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, also making his full debut, was a standout performer until he was substituted, giving manager Southgate much to consider as he finalises his squad for the...

Hungary 1 - 3 Switzerland Switzerland fought hard to secure a victory over Hungary, marking a successful start to their Euro 2024 campaign in Cologne.  Kwadwo Duah, a surprise inclusion by manager Murat Yakin, scored his first international goal, followed by Michel Aebischer doubling the lead just before half-time. Hungary's Barnabas Varga gave his team hope with 30 minutes remaining, expertly converting Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai's perfectly weighted cross past Yann Sommer. Substitute Breel Embolo sealed the win in stoppage time with a delightful lob over Peter Gulacsi. A closer look at what happened From the outset, Yakin's team controlled possession, leaving Hungary with little to show in attack during the first half. London-born Duah, having played only 45 minutes for Switzerland before this match, was brilliantly set up by Aebischer and finished neatly past Gulacsi in the 12th minute. Just before the break, left wing-back Aebischer cut in on his right ...

Spain 5 - 1 Northern Ireland Northern Ireland's unbeaten streak of three games came to an end with a 5-1 loss to Spain at Son Moix Stadium. Michael O'Neill's team made an early impact with Daniel Ballard's header putting them ahead in the second minute. However, Spain's superior quality shone through, particularly in the first half when they scored four goals. Sixteen-year-old Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal continued to impress, and it was Pedri who equalised for Spain just ten minutes after Northern Ireland's opener. Spain's Alvaro Morata, another goal from Pedri, and Fabián Ruiz had them leading 4-1 by half-time, with substitute Mikel Oyarzabal adding the final goal in the second half. Click here more news and stories from Euro 2024 Iconic moments from previous European Championships  Luis de la Fuente's squad now shift their focus to Euro 2024, starting their campaign on 15 June against Croatia. The match marked the international debut of St Mirr...