'Could have been really bad' - Ian Wright savages Scotland defender Ryan Porteous after 'appalling' challenge on Ilkay Gundogan leads to red card

Germany started their Euro 2024 campaign with a dominant 5-1 win over Scotland at the Allianz Arena in Munich courtesy of five different goalscorers - Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Kai Havertz, Niclas Fullkrug, and Emre Can. Just at the stroke of half-time, when the hosts were leading by a two-goal margin, Porteous lunged in with a two-footed challenge on Gundogan inside the box.

Referee Turpin did not hesitate to brandish the red card, but not before consulting the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). The subsequent penalty was converted by Arsenal forward Havertz which ensured Julian Nagelsmann's troops went into the break with a massive 3-0 lead.

The challenge prompted immediate outrage and debate among fans and pundits alike. Among the critics was former England striker Wright, who did not hold back in his condemnation of Porteous' actions. Speaking on ITV, Wright described the tackle as "appalling" and expressed relief that Gundogan was not seriously injured.

"This is a really bad, appalling challenge," Wright said. "The best thing is that Gundogan is not seriously injured. That could have been really bad. It's the last thing you need from Scotland's point of view".

Germany's performance in the opening game was impressive, showcasing their strength and depth. With clinical finishes from Wirtz and Musiala, and the composure of Havertz to convert the penalty, Germany demonstrated that they are one of the title contenders for the summer tournament. They will be back in action against Hungary on Wednesday and Scotland will face Switzerland on the same day.