Tartan Army is 100,000 strong

Fans drink in the atmosphere as nation put its hopes on crunch game against Hungary

- RYAN CARROLL

THE Tartan Army once again did Scotland proud as the curtain came painfully down on our Euros 2024 adventure.

An estimated 100,000 Scots began congregating near Stuttgart's large Schlossplatz fan zone from as early as 10am yesterday, hours before the final group A clash with Hungary.

Many fans wearing kilts and sporting the famous dark blue shirts were singing throughout the day, with some well-prepared for a potential beer shortage due to supermarkets being closed on a Sunday.

Alex Ritchie, 56, a window cleaner from Gardenstown, Aberdeenshire, had gathered with pals as they carried a large washing basket full of beers.

He said before the game: "The super$ markets are closed today but not a Saturday. We thought ahead and got the beers in yesterday and Lesley here came up with the washing basket idea.

"The atmosphere here is brilliant. It has been a week-and-a-half of magic.

We've waited 25 years for this and you can see it - half of Scotland is here.

"Football-wise it's a nervous atmosphere but we can make history tonight. This could be like a William Wallace moment if we get through to the next round."

Despite the supermarkets being closed, Scots were able to purchase beers and snacks from the many stalls near the fan zone.

Teacher Alex Anderson, from Carnoustie, Angus, was soaking up the atmosphere with his brother Graeme and their pal Colin McCulloch.