Germany downs Scotland in Euro 2016 opener

Germany got their qualifying campaign up and running with a 2-1 defeat of a spirited Scotland.

A goal in each half from Bayern Munich attacker Thomas Mueller ensured they won their first competitive fixture since the World Cup.

Scotland were rewarded for a positive second-half approach when winger Ikechi Anya raced clear to equalise on 66 minutes.

But the visitors failed to clear a corner four minutes later and Mueller capitalised to thump home his 24th international goal.

Mueller’s winner denied Gordon Strachan’s side what would have been a precious point in a group that also includes the Republic of Ireland, Poland, Georgia and Gibraltar.

Scotland were unable to fashion a second equaliser and the night ended on a miserable note when Mulgrew was sent off for dissent in stoppage time.

The result means Germany have now gone 33 World Cup and European Championship qualifying games without defeat.

German manager Joachim Loew, who revealed Marco Reus had picked up another ankle injury, was relieved his side had survived an uncomfortable second half.

“I’m really happy that we got the three points,” Loew said.

“Cleary I knew it would be tough. In the first half we had complete control of the game. We didn’t give them any chances and we created a lot ourselves.

“We lost control of the game a little bit in the second half. Scotland scored but we reacted well.”