DOWN BUT NOT OUT

Backing as passionate as ever despite setback in Munich

- RYAN CARROLL

THE Tartan Army last night declared the show must go on as their heroes slipped to a chastening 5-1 defeat against hosts Germany.

An estimated 200,000 Scots were in Munich - most of them without tickets just to be there for the historic Euro 2024 opener.

Tens of thousands piled into the Olympiapark fan zone to make sure they got a seat on the grassy hill around the huge screen.

Despite being billed as the prime location for ticketless Germans to watch the match, it was a Tartan Army takeover as the arena turned into a sea of Saltires.

And despite the result, supporters leaving the fan zone said they were still heading out into the city to continue the party - and hope for a big improvement in the next two games.

Fans believe Scotland will still qualify for the knockout stages with good performances against Switzerland on Wednesday and Hungary next Sunday.

Robert Young, 39, and his friend Bobby Rushford, 36, both from Falkirk, were among 25,000 Scots at the Olympiapark.

Bobby, a golf professional at Falkirk Golf Club, added: "I've waited so many years for this The result doesn't matter.

"I'm disappointed but I still firmly believe we can get out the group.