Germany appears determined to create their own historical narrative.

More challenges lie ahead, yet the Euro 2024 hosts demonstrated impressive efficiency in defeating Scotland. Fairytales don't need to make sense beforehand; they simply begin, and we naturally embrace the concept, no matter how improbable.

 A wicked prince transforming into a monstrous beast due to a beggar woman with a magical rose? Perfectly acceptable. A pumpkin transforming into a carriage? Very well, carry on. 

 A nervous host country ending their opening match in 20 minutes with extraordinary football skills after a series of tournament defeats? We're intrigued. 

 As fireworks illuminated the skies of cities throughout Germany, fan zones buzzed with excitement, and drinks were accidentally spilled in pub gardens nationwide, a feeling emerged that the country was gradually embracing its new circumstances. 

 Gone were the burdens of the past, replaced by a wave of new and joyful experiences. The era of worry and self-analysis has passed. Throughout these intense 90 minutes, Germany found anew its air of grand composure. Certainly, we must acknowledge the Scots at this juncture, exuberant and vocal leading up to the match, congregating in large crowds in the city squares of Munich. 

 However, their presence on the field fell short, with Scotland being a mere bystander in the competition. They struggled to make an impact, akin to a fragile paper bag against a fierce storm, displaying ineptitude even with a full team. In contrast, Germany confidently faced them with a determined Steve Clarke's team, ultimately redirecting them towards the Cologne Stadium to reconsider their performance. 

 Did Germany assert themselves here, or were they permitted by Scotland? Maybe the statistics provided hinted at the outcome: zero shots on goal, only two interactions in the German box, outpaced 111km to 102km, outpassed 655 to 193. Grant Hanley, who came on in the second half, managed eight touches in 47 minutes. A taxing defensive effort and significant ball-chasing time were anticipated. However, the lack of ambition, the struggle to navigate the skilled midfield, and create scoring opportunities proved to be a self-imposed setback for Scotland. 

 When considering the tournament in its entirety, it may be prudent to reserve any assessments on Germany until they face a formidable opponent, capable of testing their vulnerability during set-piece plays. What is evident at this point is the return of their confidence, the plethora of choices during possession, and the cohesive attacking strategies meticulously instilled by a select few truly top-tier coaches in the event. 

 Even Manuel Neuer delivered an exceptional performance: avoiding errors when hardly challenged in his own half. At the core of it all, as always, stood Toni Kroos. On screen, much of the analysis revolved around Scotland's attempts to thwart Kroos' influence, encroach upon his territory, and disrupt his control of the ball. However, dealing with Kroos is never as straightforward. When Germany orchestrates their build-up – a common sight at Real Madrid as well – Kroos often positions himself deepest on the field.

 He actually encourages opponents to apply pressure on him. Well, to be more accurate, he wants opponents to press him ineffectively. To draw them out, create a small opening behind, essentially taking themselves out of the game. On the right stands the industrious Joshua Kimmich. In previous times, Kimmich envisioned himself as the fresh version of Kroos, a commanding figure in the centre of the pitch for a new German era. 

 Sadly, this aspiration never fully materialized for him. One cannot help but contemplate whether there exists a hint of bruised male pride in witnessing Kroos effortlessly retake the very role that Kimmich once desired. 

 Now, it is Kroos who adeptly delivers those elegant diagonal passes, while Kimmich finds himself covering the wings, ceaselessly retrieving them. But, at this moment, they were both present, 10 minutes into the game. Kimmich was making the run, while Kroos recognized it. The ball landed in a flawless, wide arc, prompting Florian Wirtz to sprint towards the edge of the area. Kimmich located him, resulting in a hard and low finish. This was a victory of angles and technique, but most importantly, of timing. Waiting for that extra split second made a good pass truly impeccable. 

 Germany shines when they play with rhythmic variations, swiftly and slowly maneuvering the ball to keep their opponents off balance. Ilkay Gündogan swiftly passes to Wirtz, who deftly transfers the ball to Jamal Musiala, resulting in a goal. Meanwhile, Kai Havertz skillfully toys with Angus Gunn during his penalty run-up, effortlessly scoring with a display of total indifference. With three goals scored and a player down, Scotland faced more disappointments in the second half. As Germany introduced Leroy Sané, Scotland made substitutions with Kenny McLean and Amy MacDonald. Germany also brought on Niclas Füllkrug and Thomas Müller. In response, Scotland added the Falkirk Wheel and the peculiar horn structure near the M8. 

Despite the Scotland fans' defiant hymn, Germany capitalized on the lull to score once more. Playing for Germany in 2024, or for any major international team, means being pursued by shadows of the past: the victorious teams, the unsuccessful ones, and the teachings from both history and politics. This can either burden some teams or provide momentum for others. In this instance, Germany appeared to have shed its historical baggage, focusing solely on forging a new path.