Euro 2024 kick-off: Germany and Scotland prepare to get party started

“I just want to enjoy this opportunity. I’m seeing it as the hard work I’ve put in has got me here. I’m ready to give my all. That’s the main thing for me, enjoy the moment.”

David Hytner spoke to Eberechi Eze, of Crystal Palace and England, before Gareth Southgate’s side kick off against Serbia on Sunday:

Eberechi Eze of England. Photograph: Dave Shopland/Shutterstock

Here’s a story about freedom of movement

Danish police have reminded fans to take their passports with them as they travel in their thousands for their team’s opening Euro 2024 clash with Slovenia on Sunday, announcing temporary changes at the country’s southern border in the process.

As part of heightened security measures around the tournament, Germany, which shares a 68-kilometre land border with Denmark, has introduced random passport checks for travellers coming into the country, including those arriving from within the Schengen zone.

Danish police announced on Friday morning that cars, trucks and buses crossing the border via the E45 motorway at Froslev would be divided into two lanes, and that passport checks could be carried out.

“New signs have been erected at the border during this period of temporary checks to help you choose the right lane. Make sure you have your passport ready so that the check can take place quickly to reduce the risk of queues,” Danish police said.

The Danes, who won the Euros in 1992 and lost to England in the semi-finals of the most recent tournament, are expected to be cheered on by more than 50,000 travelling fans during their three Group C games against Slovenia, England and Serbia. The temporary border controls would remain in place until July 19, police said.

Denmark head coach Kasper Hjulmand speaks to the media before Sunday’s opener against Slovenia. Photograph: Liselotte Sabroe/EPA

Conor Gallagher has revealed he was rejected by Scotland as a teenager. The midfielder has Scottish ancestry through his maternal grandfather and it was not always certain that he would represent England.

“My dad’s side is Irish and my mum’s dad is Scottish,” Gallagher said. “When I was 15 or 16 I wasn’t good enough to play for the England youth team so I think I went to train with one of the Scotland teams to see what I was like, and I wasn’t good enough for them either.”

“I think the team is very prepared,” Cristiano Ronaldo says before appearing at his sixth European Championship – a record. “I’m prepared. … it’s about getting on with it.

“I enjoy football. Records are a consequence … It’s about playing well and making sure the team wins. I’ll try my best – and enjoy it.”