The European Football Cup tournament has kicked off with a bang, drawing in millions of viewers for the opening match between Germany and Scotland. The viewership numbers have been impressive, with an average of 5.8 million viewers tuning in and a peak of 9.8 million. Both ITV and BBC are vying for the attention of football fans during this month-long competition, with ITV airing the opening match. This surge in viewership marks a significant increase compared to the last Euros, where the BBC’s broadcast of Turkey vs Italy in 2021 had an average audience of 5.2 million and a peak of 6.9 million.
Despite the enthusiastic support from the Scottish football fanbase, Friday evening’s match did not end well for Scotland. The team suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of the host nation, Germany, marking the biggest-ever win for the host in the European Championships. Scottish supporters, known for their passion and dedication, have flocked to the tournament in large numbers, with millions more watching from home. However, many fans were left disappointed with ITV’s coverage of the match. The Daily Mirror and other newspapers highlighted the discontent among armchair fans who felt that the pre-match coverage focused too much on England, especially through an interview with England manager Gareth Southgate, despite the English team not playing until Sunday.
Former Scottish players, Tony Watt and Lee Mair, took to social media to express their frustration with ITV’s coverage, questioning why the focus was on England rather than Scotland. The disappointment extended beyond the fans, as Scotland manager Steve Clarke was seen having a heated exchange with an assistant coach during the match. Additionally, former player turned pundit Roy Keane did not hold back in his assessment of Scotland’s performance, criticizing the team for their lackluster play and accusing them of letting down their manager and supporters. Keane’s scathing remarks echoed the sentiments of many disappointed viewers and fans.
As the tournament unfolds over the next four weeks, both broadcasters and teams will have the opportunity to redeem themselves and capture the attention of football fans across Europe. The competition is sure to be fierce, with high stakes and passionate supporters cheering on their teams. Despite the setbacks and criticisms faced by both ITV and Scotland, there is still ample opportunity for redemption and success in the remaining matches. The European Football Cup tournament promises to deliver excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments for fans and viewers alike.