Euro 2016 qualifiers

1. Mulgrew stunned by injury-time red card
2. Both teams hit woodwork
3. FT: Hungary 1-2 Northern Ireland
4. FT: Georgia 1-2 Republic of Ireland

Well, that's all folks.

Who said the Euro 2016 qualifiers were going to be drab and boring? Northern Ireland come from behind to win away to Hungary, the Republic of Ireland triumph away to Georgia, Scotland give the world champions a scare.

We're back on Monday to see how England get on away to Switzerland. And on Tuesday, it's the turn of Wales. Thanks for your company.

Daily Telegraph football correspondent Henry Winter: Scotland lost but troubled the world champions. Scottish players inspired by the shirt, not inhibited by it. England take note.

Full-time in the other qualifiers around Europe and undoubtedly the biggest surprise result is Albania's 1-0 win at Portugal. Bekim Balaj's fierce volley secured the points for the away side and Portugal will be hoping to see Cristiano Ronaldo back from injury as soon as possible.

Elsewhere, it was the Robert Lewandowski show as the Poland striker scored four as his side beat Gibraltar 7-0. Finland came back from a brief scare to beat Faroe Islands 3-1, while Greece lost 1-0 at home to Romania.

Former Everton midfielder Peter Reid: Scotland's fans take a bow. Outstanding.

Manager reaction

More from Scotland manager Gordon Strachan: "I thought we would get a point and I actually thought we would win it at one stage. There were no points, we had the performance but the next game is a big game and we will look forward to that challenge when it comes round."

On the referee: "It is not for me to talk about the referee. I will leave that to the assessor. I will let other people discuss it."

Manager reaction

Scotland manager Gordon Strachan, speaking to Sky Sports: "I feel disappointed for the people who came to watch us, and the players as well. To have put in that kind of work, going out there against really physical players, they stood up to it.

"Germany were going to make chances, that was going to happen, but we played with a real freedom in the second half."

Former Scotland captain Colin Hendry: So the referee sends off one of our boys for kicking the ball away. So what about being the last man and dragging your opponent down?

Hendry is clearly unhappy that Germany forward Thomas Muller was not red carded for hauling down Shaun Maloney in the dying stages.

Player reaction

Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall, speaking to Sky Sports: "It was disappointing. We were probably the team towards the end, we were in the ascendency at that point.

"We are trying to get points on the board. The gaffer changed things for the second half and we played well. It shows how well we had done that we have come away disappointed with this result against Germany."

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Andy in Armagh: Gordon Strachan has got Scotland going places. At long last there is a man who knows what he is doing in charge of the national team, and someone who can inject belief and organisation into his players. His tactics are always spot on.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Since Gordon Strachan took over he has put belief into the players. The Scottish players have that cocky belief in themselves. They believe they can stand up to teams and take them on.

"If you have that belief you have that chance to take on teams. Scotland created a good few chances, more than most teams. The thing I love about Scotland is they go out and they give everything for that shirt."

AP

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Mark Lynch: What an absolutely awful piece of refereeing in the last two minutes. How did he not add on the extra time?

Matt I: Scotland doubters just kept having to lower their score line prediction as the game wore on. Immensely proud of Scotland.

Tony Paterson: Glorious failure is still failure for Scotland. If we can't defend we'll drop lots of points. Martin-Hanley never a partnership.

Lots of positives for Scotland to take into their next game. Up next in their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign? Georgia at home on 11 October followed by Poland away on 14 October.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Germany were very good in the first half, Scotland were slightly better in the second half but I have to say I was disappointed with the referee.

"In short, he bottled it. He bottled it with two or three big decisions. The most important thing was Scotland played well but the referee? Hang your head in shame."

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Gordon Strachan has seen his players give absolutely everything in Dortmund but he looks angry as he makes his way towards the tunnel.

The Scotland manager is clearly unhappy with the decision to send off Charlie Mulgrew.

We're going to hear a lot more about this.

FULL-TIME

All over. A brave, brave performance by Scotland against the world champions.

PA

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Robert Lewandowski completes his hat-trick before quickly adding his fourth for good measure and make it 7-0 to Poland against Gibraltar, who have certainly had a tough introduction to competitive football as a Uefa member.

HITS THE WOODWORK

Astonishing finish. Thomas Muller is denied his hat-trick by a post - a low long-range strike - before the Germany forward is yellow carded for hauling back Shaun Maloney.

RED CARD

Scotland will finish with 10 men as Charlie Mulgrew receives a second yellow card and is sent off.

Mulgrew looks stunned - the booking was for kicking the ball away after the whistle had gone.

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Marco Reus is helped off the pitch and play resumes.

It's now or never for Scotland. There's still time for one last chance.

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Three minutes to go

Three minutes of added time.

Play is held up as Marco Reus crumples to the ground following a heavy challenge.

The hosts are preparing to send on Matthias Ginter.

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Sho Rahman: If Scotland don't get a point from this game they're gonna be devastated. They've matched Germany tonight.

Kevin Lloyd: How many times have we seen Scotland push big teams, before being inept against other minnows?

Connor McQuade: Regardless of the result tonight, highly encouraged by Scotland's performance tonight. Bodes well I hope

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"It is just tiredness now for Scotland. Alan Hutton was pulled out there but it was not his fault, he tried to get as close as he could to their man but no-one came to help. But Scotland survived it."

The answer is no.

Germany win another corner but they are in no rush to take it.

Mario Gotze goes close with a close range finish which falls narrowly wide.

Time running out for Scotland.

Another corner for Germany. The visitors pack their penalty area with 10 blue shirts. But it comes to nothing.

Can Scotland counter-attack?

The dream for the Faroe Islands was alive for just 12 minutes as Finland have since scored three goals to lead 3-1.

No changes in the scores from elsewhere in Europe, with Poland perhaps taking their foot off the pedal against Gibraltar as they still lead 5-0, while Romania and Albania are beating Greece and Portugal 1-0 respectively.

EPA

Lots of tired legs on show now from both sets of players.

Germany know they have been in a game. They have had to fight for these points and they are not guaranteed yet.

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Sam from Telford: England have adopted Andy Murray. Can we adopt the Scottish football team too? They play better football.

Calum, Aberdeen: If we get Hanley out of the team Scotland might actually be able to achieve something internationally, unfortunately Strachan has other ideas and persists. Great performance otherwise lads.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Do you think Sebastian Rudy might not fancy playing against Ikechi Anya every week? He has worked his socks off tonight. The way the Germans play they are quite cavalier, they do push up really far."

FINAL 10 MINUTES

Scotland are still pushing forward in search of a second equaliser. Steven Naismith is replaced by Shaun Maloney.

Reuters

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Pawel in Edinburgh: What a display from "outsiders". Albania are winning at Portugal, the Faroe Island are drawing with Finland. And Scotland are producing a great performance against the world champions.

Germany free-kick.

I'm sure it will have looked good on the training ground but it goes horribly wrong on the pitch as Thomas Muller fails to prevent Toni Kroos's cross into the area from going out.

Very ordinary from the world champions.

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Mubarak Hasan: Just when I thought Scotland will park the bus.. Heartbreak

Paul Flanagan: Whatever happens tonight Strachan is showing he can squeeze every last drop out of players he has available.

William Lewis: What a response from the world champions!

Whatever the final outcome, Gordon Strachan will be heartened by what he has seen by his players against the world champions. There has been no rolling over. Anything but. Scotland have been bright and breezy and have given Germany a real scare.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"This has been a real joy to see Scotland having a go. They are toe-to-toe with Germany and there is enough fight in this Scotland group to give other teams a game in this group."

EPA

Bit a surprise elsewhere in Europe as Albania are winning 1-0 at Portugal, with Bekim Balaj firing home seven minutes into the second half. It is a Cristiano Ronaldo-less Portugal, I might add, but an impressive scoreline at the moment nevertheless.

Elsewhere, Gibraltar's resolve against Poland has been broken. Four goals in 10 second-half minutes - including two from Robert Lewnadowski - means the away side lead 5-0 and still 25 minutes to go in that game.

Elsewhere, Finland have equalised against Faroe Islands, while Romania are still beating Greece 1-0.

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Scots Wehey: Ach... we just annoyed them.

YELLOW CARD

Pressure straight away from Scotland. Steven Naismith is in a good attacking position and brought down close to the edge of the Germany box by Erik Durm, who is booked for his troubles. Charlie Mulgrew's poor subsequent free-kick hits the wall.

This is breathless. This is relentless. And this is not over. Scotland are still in this.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Painful, very, very painful. That goal is a gift to Germany. The delivery was good but they have got lucky because the ball has pinged around fallen to the right player for them. Can Scotland come back again? Is it at all possible? I think they believe they can."

GOAL

One step forward, two steps back for Scotland. . . .

They are level for just four minutes as Thomas Muller pokes Germany back into the lead after the visitors fail to deal with a corner.

Heartbreak.

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Kenny Kong: Scotland fully deserves that goal. What a counter.

Alex Patterson: GOOAAAALLLLLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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Kev in Formby: Scotland are putting in a better display than I have seen from England in years. Imagine England here tonight.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"You know what? I can believe this, I can believe this scoreline with the second half display. I've been saying get in behind the Germany defence and do it with Ikechi Anya. They have been pushing up and that chance was coming. Do they go for a winner now? It has shocked the stadium here but it is not a shock when you watch this game. I think Scotland want to go win it now."

GOAL

Can you believe it?

Ikechi Anya writes his name into Scotland folklore with a brilliant, composed low finish past Manuel Neuer after a powerful run into the Germany half.

The world champions are stunned. Scotland are in dreamland. And it all started with a misplaced pass from Mario Gotze - the man who scored the winner in the World Cup final.

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AP

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"There is no shadow of a doubt, on chances in the second half, Scotland are the better side. There were too chances for Naismith and one for Fletcher too."

Into the the final half an hour. This game is far from over.

Scotland fans are in full voice. They believe.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"David Marshall had to be big, he got out there and it was a superb save."

PENALTY APPEAL

Screams of penalty from Scotland's players as Steven Fletcher's header strikes a German player's hand. The referee is not interested.

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GREAT SAVE!

Almost 2-0 - and it would have been but for a great save from David Marshall, who denies Marco Reus. The subsequent corner comes to nothing.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"It is on Steven Naismith's weaker left foot. He is capable of taking that but you try that and one in 10 goes on target. He will be gutted about that - particularly because I think he had time to take a touch."

What a chance. What a horrible finish.

Steven Naismith is unmarked eight yards out as a pin-point cross lands at his feet but the Everton man swings out a boot which flies horribly high and wide.

That could be costly.

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Dave, Oxford: Scotland, serial over achievers. Get realistic, 3rd rate league and choice of players. No real Scottish superstars any more. Wish there were.

Ian Manson: Even though this is a German side in transition after a huge triumph they are still formidable. Scotland not being outclassed by them is something to proud of.

Rupert in Dorset: Reason to be cheerful, Scotland are doing way better than Brazil did against Germany

SUBSTITUTION

One Fletcher on. One Fletcher off. Sunderland striker Steven comes on for Barry Bannan as skipper Darren is replaced by James McArthur. Bold move by Gordon Strachan who has clearly not given up on this.

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Dean Ritchie: I have a feeling Scotland will get Germany on the back foot, but not make anything of it.

John Regan: Strachan is a pragmatist. Anything Scotland get here is a bonus, but he'll plot a course through the group. I'm optimistic.

Germany in sloppy pass shock as Jerome Boateng is guilty of gifting possession to a blue shirt.

Scotland fans are making themselves heard.

Reuters

If Scotland can maintain this tempo then we're in for a terrific second-half in Dortmund.

But the visitors need to keep their discipline. Grant Hanley is booked for a blatant push on Mario Gotze and Andre Schurrle volleys over from the resulting set-piece.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"What a brilliant piece of play. Brilliant break forward by Alan Hutton and a top, top strike by Steven Naismith."

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HITS THE WOODWORK

Brilliant by Steven Naismith. The Scotland forward has the ball at his feet on the edge of the Germany area. He dances past one defender. Then another.

But agony is etched across his face as his finish clips the outside of the post and the chance is gone.

Terrific start to the second-half.

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Paul Flanagan: Way too much negativity from some Scotland fans. We're only 1-0 down away from home at HT vs. World Champs. All to play for

Aidan McCauley: Come on Scotland, never mind the ney-sayers!

Andrew Forbes: Hate the pessimism on display. 1-0, against the World Champions! I could imagine worse!

Tim Oliver: I have more confidence in Scotland winning against Germany than Gibraltar in this same situation.

KICK-OFF

Huge 45 minutes coming up for Scotland. It's all systems go. . .

The players are on their way out. . .

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Scotland have to know that when they get possession they hold it well and break well. I want to see the ball given to Anya as often as possible. Two or three times they have got very, very close to getting through."

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AP

Paul Flanagan: Way too much negativity from some Scotland fans. We're only 1-0 down away from home at half-time v world champions. All to play for.

Andrew Hobs: Hate the pessimism on display. It's 1-0 against the world champions. I could imagine worse!

Tim Oliver: I have more confidence in Scotland winning against Germany than Gibraltar in this same situation.

Half-time stats

BBC

The possession and shots on target stats may not make for pleasant reading for Scotland fans, but they are definitely still in this game.

There have been chinks in Germany's armour which Scotland's pacy players could exploit. Another goal for Germany, though, and it will be hard to see them getting anything.

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Luke Dickinson: Faroe Islands beating Finland who are 128 places higher in the rankings. Not bad!

One surprise in the half-time scores from elsewhere in Europe as Christian Holst bagged just before half-time to give Faroe Islands a 1-0 lead at home to Finland.

Elsewhere, it is as you were with Poland beating Gibraltar 1-0 at the break, and Romania 1-0 up in Greece.

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Steve in Edinburgh (between 36 and 40 mins) has certainly got things going....

James, Coatbridge: So, Steve is comparing us to English fans and media, I think he has been having an extended liquid lunch.

Robert from Reading: Scotland should be full of hope, Strachan is doing a great job.

Dave in Edinburgh: There is a massive difference between being full of hope and expecting a victory. That might make you deluded but by no means arrogant.

Can Scotland re-group and haul themselves back into this?

As Pat Nevin says, they are certainly not out of this. But you get the feeling that if the world champions get a second goal early in the second half then the floodgates could open.

Time for a Tartan hero to step forward. Darren Fletcher? Charlie Mulgrew?

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Germany are certainly the better side, they are passing the ball beautifully and creating chances but Scotland are not out of this, purely because Germany push up. With Anya's and Naismith's pace, this game is not dead yet."

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William Lewis: This is sad to watch, Germany are going to massacre Scotland like they did against Brazil. Wow.

Harry Whittingham: Look on the bright side Scotland fans. Brazil were 5-0 down to the Germans by now. #bbcfootball

HALF-TIME

EPA

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"How often do you see a pass from a goalkeeper that gets the entirety of the stadium not only applauding but gasping slightly as well. It was a brilliant tackle by Manuel Neuer.

"But the thing is, when Germany are attacking, there is no-one within 70 or 80 yards of the goalkeeper, Scotland know that. The fact that Neuer had to make that astonishing tackle is because of that and they might get caught out."

CLOSE!

Incredible by Manuel Neuer.

The Germany keeper almost sets up a goal as he keeps possession after a sliding challenge on Ikechi Anya outside his own area before sparking an attack down the left with a clever pass.

Andre Schurrle crosses into the danger area and Grant Hanley's attempted clearance is heading for the Scotland net before David Marshall sticks out a hand to save the visitors.

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Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Germany have weaknesses. They are the world champions but even in that wide area there are weaknesses. When you face them, you do come with a chance, but you need to make sure you don't give anything away as well."

Henry is right, Scotland are doing better than Brazil, who were hammered 7-1, did at the hands of Germany in the World Cup. But there's a long way to go yet and the world champions are unlikely to take their foot off the gas. Five minutes to the interval.

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Henry Shah: Scotland doing better than Brazil.

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Steve in Edinburgh: So, Germany have just won the World Cup, which Scotland yet again failed miserably to qualify for, and because of a few friendly results Scotland are full of hope? And they say English fans are arrogant and deluded.

A rare counter-attack thanks to Barry Bannan's delightful pass from the edge of his own area. But it comes to nothing as Steven Naismith can't keep possession. The story of Scotland's night so far. . .

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No shame in conceding a Thomas Muller goal. His recent record shows he has a knack of hitting the back of the net in games that count.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Scotland can't afford to be missing key players, but that is the way it is. They will hope to get them back for the games they may feel they can get something more from."

Credit to Germany. Russell Martin handles the ball inside his own area while attempting to make a clearance but the home players do not make a fuss as the referee indicates it was not intentional.

Gordon Strachan breathes a sigh of relief.

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Everyone loves a fairytale in football right? The underdog triumphing, David beating Goliath. Well, sadly, that is not looking like it will be the case with Gibraltar, they trail Poland 1-0 thanks to Kamil Grosicki's strike.

Just one other goal in tonight's other qualifiers to bring you news of. A 10th-minute penalty by Ciprian Marica has put Romania 1-0 up in Greece.

Wave after wave of German pressure.

This time Marco Reus lets fly from outside the area but his effort is palmed away by David Marshall. The ball falls to Andre Schurrle but Russell Martin makes a vital block to prevent the Chelsea man making it 2-0.

Scotland cannot get out of their own half.

EPA

There are eight Scotland players inside their own area. But they can't clear properly and the ball falls at the feet of Toni Kroos, whose first time shot flies over David Marshall's bar. This is relentless.

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John Dykes: Too much talk about Germany's defence, when they can go out and score 7 past Brazil. Nicking a dodgy goal won't get you far.

Nick Bruzon: And so it begins. 1-0 Germany......

Craig Wilcox: Where has talk of Scotland having a fighting chance come from? Germany will run away with this once they get out of 2nd gear

A snap shot by Marco Reus keeps David Marshall on his toes. Germany are in cruise - or should that be Kroos - control.

Big few minutes coming up for Scotland. The home fans are bouncing, the hosts are looking to kill this game early. A second now and the floodgates could open.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Scotland are not that big at the back and it is not a sophisticated goal, it is not complicated. They put the ball in and I am not surprised Germany are ahead from that move, because that has been their tactic so far. Thomas Muller has enormous technical ability. It was an odd header, but it does not matter how he angles it, he knows how to head a ball."

GOAL

Brilliant by Thomas Muller as the Germany forward outjumps Russell Martin and Alan Hutton to put the world champions ahead following Sebastian Rudy's cross into the area. This could be a long night for Gordon Strachan.

All too easy - and not unlike the sort of goal you might see right across Scotland every weekend.

AP

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Brian McDonald: I disagree with the tournament increase to 24 teams. Means more one-sided matches and less prestige. Also, Sunday night football?

Ijaz: Even with a few key players missing, this Germany squad is frightening

Rian Hoskins: Defence could potentially be a weak point for Germany with Lahm retired and Hummels not starting. But the attack is frightening.

More pressure from Scotland, who are starting to grow into this contest. This time the ball drops to Charlie Mulgrew just insie the area and he smashes his effort towards goal. It thunders agonisingly off the woodwork but it would not have counted because the offside flag is up.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"We talked about Anya, very few people can stay with him."

'Flower of Scotland' booms around the Signal Iduna Park as Barry Bannan's effort from 15-yards is deflected narrowly over after a fine run by Ikechi Anya finds James Morrison who tees-up the Crystal Palace man. Great move by Scotland.

Darren Fletcher update.

The Manchester United midfielder has looked lively in the opening 10 minutes and his long ball forward to Ikechi Anya is cut out by Manuel Neuer before any damage can be caused.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Do you know what? I could have scored that! I would have felt confident of putting that away. It is a terrible miss for a player of that standard."

CLOSE!

How did he miss?

Thomas Muller is unmarked and eight yards out when he connects with a cross into the Scotland box but cannot keep his header on target.

What a let off for the visitors.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"In the the first few minutes of this game Scotland are trying to play the balls long for the pace of Ikechi Anya. That is where they are going to go. Apart from that, Scotland have looked OK when they have had the ball, they have just not been able to get enough of it though."

First serious shot of the game and it's Chelsea's Andre Schurrle who cuts in from the wing before firing over David Marshall's bar. The first of many to come?

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Reuters

Andrew, Stalybridge: This is why upping the Euros to 24 teams was a great idea. First night and there's genuine excitement for teams about finishing 2nd/3rd and qualifying. It's like Germany are only there for bonus points, and everyone else still has something very real to play for.

Steve: Scotland shouldn't get downhearted even with a heavy defeat. The overblown new finals mean you only need around four points to get into a playoff.

Germany are dominating possession in these early exchanges. The game was about 100 seconds old before Scotland got a touch. An early home corner is comfortably cleared.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin

BBC Radio 5 live

"Have Scotland touched the ball yet?"

KICK-OFF

The stadium is rocking. We're under way.

EPA

A sign of things to come? Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has just dropped the pennant in the centre circle.

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A difference of opinion...

Rob Kershaw: could be interesting as Germany just look disfunctional. Not the same killing machine after some key players' retirements.

Scott Kelly: Cant believe people are saying THIS Scotland team can beat THIS Germany team. Germany will score then the floodgates will open.

The national anthems are over. The handshakes are over. We're ready. Are you sitting comfortably?

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Paul Adam: Don't underestimate the impact of your captain retiring. #lackoflahm Come on Scotland!

Shohidur Rahman: Looking at Germany's defence there are definitely goals there for Scotland if they're brave.

Scotland boss Gordon Strachan on Sky Sports: "I am looking forward to this, the fans been fantastic around the town today, it is good to see.

"We have had big decisions all around the team this week and we feel the team we have picked is our best chance to give Germany a good game here. There have been three or four big calls. We all know the importance of everybody to play well."

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Wow. The teams are walking out to a raucous reception from a full house inside the Signal Iduna Park. Home fans have unveiled a huge golden star to celebrate the team's World Cup triumph. The national anthems are about to start.

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Martin McHugh: The Scots are in for a right thumping. 6-1.

What the papers says

@Sunday_Mail

There has been no shortage of stories in the build-up to Scotland's visit to Dortmund. Germany and Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski says he expects Germany's opponents to play "dirty". That, as you can imagine, has not gone down well with Gordon Strachan. The Sunday Mail says the Scotland manager has hit back at Podolski's comments, while skipper Darren Fletcher has told the world champions 'don't disrespect us'.

Getting shirty

@DFB_TEAM_EN

Germany: Here are the kits for today's game.

When was the last time Scotland reached the finals of a European Championship?

You have to go all the way back to 1996 when they drew with the Netherlands 0-0, before losing to hosts England 2-0. And even though they beat Switzerland 1-0 thanks to an Ally McCoist goal, it was not enough to progress from Group A.

They also qualified for Euro 1992 in Sweden, but those two are so far their only appearances at a European Championship.

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Waleibraheem1: Scotland to beat Germany at home is actually a tall order. But in football you never say never.

Mark Croasdale: As a Blackburn fan, bit surprised Jordan Rhodes doesn't make the Scotland squad when Grant Hanley does?

History will be made as Uefa's newest member, Gibraltar, play their first competitive fixture as they host Poland.

The team composed of fire fighters, teachers and policemen face the daunting task of trying to outshine the likes of Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski and Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

It would be quite the upset if they managed to sneak a win.

Busy night ahead

This is not the only Euro 2016 qualifier taking place tonight. Portugal host Albania, Romania visit Greece while Finland are away to the Faroe Islands. And there's one more game. . .

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Douglas Cameron: Let's go Scotland, anything less than 7-1 and we're better than Brazil.

Geoff Naylor: Can't understand where the optimism comes from for the Scottish team. Not one Scottish player would get in the German fourth team.

Andrew Duffy: Just came from Dortmund and what an atmosphere in the city by the Scotland fans! Good luck.

Former Scotland international Pat Nevin in Dortmund

BBC Radio 5 live

"I am delighted Manchester United have given Darren Fletcher his chances this season, but I don't think he has been at his best. Gordon Strachan said it will be a couple of months before you see him at his best. It will be tough for him tonight because he is against some incredible players. But he is back, he is out on the pitch and he is there on merit, so you cannot be more happy for any other player in football right now. What a battle he has had."

Scotch on the rocks?

@scottishfa

After masterminding Germany's World Cup triumph, you would expect Joachim Low to have sunk a glass or three of champagne since returning from Brazil. But Scotland have arrived in Germany with a 'real' drink for the Germany boss to celebrate his magnificent feat this summer. The Scottish FA have tweeted this picture of a bottle of whisky awaiting Low at Dortmund's Signal Iduna Park stadium with the message 'A gift for Germany coach Joachim Low'.

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Skipper Darren Fletcher says Scotland's players are relishing the opportunity to topple world champions Germany in their opening match of Euro 2016 qualifying. "You've got to look forward to that challenge and not be scared of it - you have to embrace it. What a scalp it could be," says the Manchester United midfielder.

But do Scotland really have any chance against the world champions? Will the Tartan Army be celebrating a famous win in Dortmund? Can Gordon Strachan's men pull off a major shock?

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Team News

Scotland defender Russell Martin passes a fitness test. The Norwich captain did not train on Saturday due to a groin strain, but has recovered in time. David Marshall is preferred to Allan McGregor in goal, with Steven Naismith leading the line in his 30th international appearance.

Scotland team: Marshall, Hutton, Russell Martin, Whittaker, Hanley, Mulgrew, Morrison, Darren Fletcher, Bannan, Anya, Naismith. Subs: Allan McGregor, Greer, Maloney, Steven Fletcher, Bryson, McDonald, Burke, Reynolds, McArthur, Forsyth, Chris Martin, Gordon.

Due to retirement and injury Germany boss Joachim Low fields just six of the side which started in the World Cup final against Argentina, with under-fire striker Mario Gomez spearheading the attack.

Germany team: Neuer, Rudy, Howedes, Boateng, Durm, Kroos, Kramer, Gotze, Reus, Schurrle, Muller. Subs: Zieler, Grosskreutz, Ginter, Podolski, Sam, Rudiger, Gomez, Weidenfeller.

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K Love: I'm very hopeful Scotland can at least get a draw.

Kyle McIlwraith: A fighting performance from Scotland would do but a draw would be superb! Second place in the group is possible though.

Michael Tombs: Scotland could easily nick a draw. Naismith will get chances against an inexperienced defence.

Talk about tough starts! Scotland will certainly have to be brave if they are to emerge unscathed from their visit to Dortmund's Signal Iduna Park.

The sound of bagpipes have been heard in Dortmund all day. Will Scotland fans be celebrating later?

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Thanks, Gary. It is 5,920 days since Scotland crumbled to a 3-0 defeat to Morocco in St Etienne. Craig Brown was the manager, Colin Hendry the captain. The Tartan Army had flooded France in their thousands for the 1998 World Cup finals but headed home with their dreams shattered once more.

Scotland have not been seen at a major tournament since. But optimism is on the rise, fans are daring to believe. Gordon Strachan's men are unbeaten in their last six games.

Can they book a return to France for Euro 2016? The journey starts here. The journey starts against world champions Germany.

Got your breath back yet? If not, take a few quick gulps of air because there is no slowing down this European Championship live text juggernaut.

Our attention now swings to Scotland's game against Germany. Can Gordon Strachan's side match Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for drama and beat the reigning world champions?

I'll hand over to my colleague Neil Johnston, to guide you through the action...

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Andrew in Belfast via text: What a comeback from Northern Ireland! Great start to the European Championship qualifiers, could this finally be the time that we can qualify for a major tournament? Believe.

Player reaction

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper David Forde, speaking to Sky Sports: "What a strike [by Georgia's Tornike Okriashvili] but main thing is we have won. I am delighted."

On starting ahead of Shay Given: "We all want the same thing and that is to qualify. Shay has been giving loads of support and I have nothing but admiration."

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Stephen Noakes: Take a picture folks, when are you ever going to see both Irish teams topping their qualification group?

John Barry: 'I'd love to say there is the same level of drama in Tblisi as Budapest'. Go ahead.

Andrew: Brilliant by McGeady. . .two-goal hero.

Player reaction

Republic of Ireland's Jonathan Walters, speaking to Sky Sports: "You always have to believe and I think we dominated the ball. They set up to defend but it was a quality goal by Aiden McGeady."

Player reaction

Northern Ireland's match winner Kyle Lafferty, speaking to Sky Sports: "We knew it would be hard coming here. We knew if we dug deep and play the way we can we would pick up points tonight and thankfully we went on and won. We are sitting very nicely after the first game."

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Some Body: Woooooh! Georgia 1-2 Ireland, McGeady with the goal of his life in the last minute! #Northern Ireland win too!!!!

Wale Ibraheem: Northern Ireland really have a good chance to qualify from that group and they have helped themselves with this win.

Geoff Jackson: You look at their group and realise this is Northern Ireland's best chance of reaching a major tournament.

Player reaction

Northern Ireland winger Niall McGinn, who scored his side's first, speaking to Sky Sports:" I was just delighted to come on and score. This is massive, the amount of hard work we have put in and this is the reward. It is a good start."

@DFB_Team_En

Germany: A look inside the dressing room. Everything is in place!

Neat and tidy on the pitch. And clearly neat and tidy in the dressing room too. But can Scotland mess up Germany's plans in Dortmund?

@ScottishFa

The atmosphere is building inside and outside Dortmund's Signal Iduna Park. Around 5,000 Scotland fans have made the journey to Germany for a game which is expected to attract a crowd of 60,000.

@Dfb_team_en

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Jenni in Newtownards via text: Niall McGinn, game-changer!

FULL-TIME

Stunning stuff! It may be just the start of qualifying, but this is the sort of result that could ultimately prove crucial.

FULL-TIME

What. A. Comeback.

EPA

SUBSTITUTION

Into injury time and David Meyler replaces James McCarthy.

GOAL

Dramatic stuff in Tbilisi as the Republic of Ireland look to have snatched all three points! It was all down to Aiden McGeady, who displays magical footwork just inside the area to turn and fire in with a sweet left-foot strike. Beautiful.

I'd love to say there is the same level of drama in Tblisi as Budapest.....

GOAL

Amazing! Northern Ireland appear to have turned this around as they take the lead with minutes remaining. Niall McGinn is once again involved as his shot is blocked, but the ball deflects out to Corry Evans and his ball across the face of goal is bundled in by Kyle Lafferty with Hungary's Vilmos Vanczak in close attention.

PA

Vital intervention by Corry Evans as he heads away a high ball just in front of his own goalline. Plenty of defending for the away side to do, but there is always Niall McGinn's pace on the counter to keep the Hungary defence on their toes.

Elsewhere in Europe

Comeback complete? It is now Denmark 2-1 Armenia, with Thomas Kahlenberg finding the net 10 minutes from time.

GOAL

Brilliant and swift attack by Northern Ireland produces a late equaliser as Kyle Lafferty breaks into the area on the left and squares the ball across goal for Niall McGinn to tap into the empty net. Game on for the last 10 minutes!

Reuters

SUBSTITUTION

Last throw of the dice by Northern Ireland coach Michael O'Neill as Billy McKay comes on for Ollie Norwood.

SUBSTITUTION

Entering the last 15 minutes and Martin O'Neill opts to make a double change. On comes Shane Long and Robbie Brady for Robbie Keane and Stephen Quinn respectively. Can they find a winner?

PA

It is becoming increasingly scrappy in Tbilisi. Who will that suit most? Aiden McGeady tries to wrap his foot around a bouncing loose ball just outside the area, but powers it high and wide.

GOAL

Heartbreaking for Northern Ireland as Hungary take the lead, but it is hard to say it had not been coming. Balazs Dzsudzsak whips in a corner and Tamas Priskin powers through a crowded area to rise above everybody and glance in.

Cue celebrations.

Reuters

Radio Ulster summariser, former NI defender John O'Neill: "Disappointing we have conceded from a set piece. I always think anything in the six-yard box should be the keeper's."

SUBSTITUTION

Third and final change made by Hungary as midfielder Istvan Kovacs takes the place of Gergely Rudolf. Northern Ireland are forced into a second change as Gareth McAuley goes off with a knock, Craig Cathcart is the man to replace him.

Women at Wembley

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

FA Club England managing director Adrian Bevington is a guest of 606 on BBC Radio 5 live with Ian Wright and Kelly Cates.

Following recent confirmation of a first international at the new Wembley for England's women's team, he said that further fixtures should be played there.

"I feel we should be looking to get an international at Wembley every two seasons. It's something the girls deserve."

SUBSTITUTION

Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill reacts to Hungary's improved display by making his first change as Aberdeen winger Niall McGinn comes on for Jamie Ward.

@podolski10

Arsenal and Germany forward Lukas Podolski: Dortmund we're coming!

There's just two-and-a-half-hours before Scotland face world champions Germany in Dortmund's Signal Iduna Park. Follow all the build-up and full text commentary here.

BreakingBREAKING TEAM NEWS

PA

Scotland make five changes to the team that started their last game, a 2-2 friendly draw with Nigeria on 28 May. In come goalkeeper David Marshall, Steven Whittaker, Russell Martin, midfielder Darren Fletcher and Crystal Palace's Barry Bannan.

Scotland team: Marshall, Hutton, Whittaker, Martin, Hanley, Morrison, Fletcher, Mulgrew, Naismith, Bannan, Anya.

BBC Scotland sport reporter Alasdair Lamont: Russell Martin fit to play for Scotland. David Marshall in goal. Stevie Naismith up front.

Breaking off from all things Irish for a moment...

CLOSE!

Aiden McGeady tries to curl an effort over Roin Kvaskhvadze but the Georgia goalkeeper stretches to claw the ball out of the air. Well held, but he has looked a little nervy at times.

The home fans have found their voice again as Hungary are much improved by their substitutions and one of those - Gergo Lovrencsics - goes close with a fierce drive, but Roy Carroll does just enough.

Elsewhere in Europe

A leveller in Denmark - with Pierre Hojbjerg finding the back of the net. It is now Denmark 1-1 Armenia.

Ooh half-a-chance for the Republic of Ireland as a cross loops over to Robbie Keane on the left side of the area. He is unmarked but the striker fails to connect with his volley and ends up scuffing it wide. Should have done better.

SUBSTITUTION

AP

Another change for Hungary as Adam Gyurcso comes off, with forward Gergo Lovrencsics taking his place. The home side clearly fancy getting themselves a winner against tiring Northern Ireland legs.

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Denmark fan Kaspar Larsen: At least it's only 1-0, the last time Denmark played Armenia at home, we lost 4-0.

Aiden McGeady takes a free-kick for the men in green but it drifts wide. Lively at the moment.

Chances at both ends as first Georgia midfielder Jano Ananidze tries to drive a low cross into the Republic of Ireland area, but it is too near David Forde and he gets down well to smother the ball with Nikoloz Gelashvili lurking.

At the other end, Seamus Coleman sends in a teasing cross aimed at Jon Walters, but Solomon Kverkvelia does well to get up with his head and take the flight of the ball away from the Ireland striker.

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Richard Wyatt: I hope Northern Ireland go for the win.

Samuel Green: If Northern Ireland are to qualify they are going to have to be aggressive and not rely on later results.

Dominic O'Caollai: Martin O'Neill's tactic of score one and sit back for the entire rest of the game is costing Ireland. Useless and predictable.

Northern Ireland are yet to pick up from where they left off in the first half, with Hungary looking a little more lively in the final third following the introduction of Tamas Priskin. The away side maybe playing it a little safe?

Elsewhere in Europe

Great news for Armenia - Henrikh Mkhitaryan has put them ahead in Denmark after 49 minutes.

YELLOW CARD

Georgia's Akaki Khubutia earns himself a booking after a challenge on James McCarthy is deemed too strong by referee Kevin Blom. It was a double blow for the defender as he appeared to injure himself in the process.

Do they even care?

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

FA Club England managing director Adrian Bevington is a guest of 606 on BBC Radio 5 live with Ian Wright and Kelly Cates.

Reacting to criticism, which has come from, among others, QPR manager Harry Redknapp, that England's players do not care enough about playing for their country, he insisted: "The players do care about playing for England. They are so passionate.

"There is a pressure when they pull that shirt on and we have to help them with that."

Responding to former captain David Beckham's statement that he would be proud to help out England in any way, Bevington said the input of retired internationals like Beckham, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Rio Ferdinand would be invaluable.

"That can't go to waste," he said.

"We have been too slow on the uptake on this. I think we could get them involved ranging from travelling with the England team as ambassadors, being more involved in the business, if that's what they want, or coming to St George's Park to give inspirational talks.

"We have to reach out to them. It's our responsibility. We can't afford to lose these people to the game."

Get in touch, call 0500 909 693, text 85058 and use the hashtag @bbc606 on social media.

SUBSTITUTION

There is a different face in goal for Georgia now as goalkeeper Giorgi Loria fails to reappear after taking a heavy knock towards the end of the first half. On comes Roin Kvaskhvadze.

KICK-OFF

Also back under way in Tbilisi.

KICK-OFF

Hungary boss Attila Pinter is evidently not impressed with his attack as he makes a change for the second half. Nemanja Nikolic comes off with the familiar name of Tamas Priskin on. The former Watford, QPR and Ipswich striker has scored 13 goals for Hungary, can he add to that against Northern Ireland?

Conor McNamara

BBC commentator in Dortmund

@conormcnamara

"Outside the stadium in Dortmund, a little reminder for Scotland of what they're up against tonight."

You can listen to Conor's commentary on BBC Radio 5 live from 19:45 BST.

What now for Roy?

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

FA Club England managing director Adrian Bevington is a guest of 606 on BBC Radio 5 live with Ian Wright and Kelly Cates.

Commenting on Roy Hodgson's position as manager, he said: "We are disappointed with the World Cup. There's no getting away from that.

"Roy has a contract until 2016 and it's his job, with our support, to take us forward. The challenge is with us as a collective, not just Roy. We have to excite people and we are aware of that."

Get in touch, call 0500 909 693, text 85058 and use the hashtag @bbc606 on social media.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Some Body: Shocking home reffing in Georgia. Never a free-kick. Very good goal for them before that though. Can Ireland respond?

John McEnerney: Great goal by Georgia but Martin O'Neill & Roy Keane will read the riot act at HT, the lads have done well but can do better.

Elsewhere in Europe

Still goalless in the match between Denmark and Armenia, which also kicked off at 17:00 BST. You've not missed much there so far.

Former NI winger Keith Gillespie on BBC Radio Ulster: "It has been a good performance so far, Hungary are there for the taking. Should we be more offensive or settle for a draw?"

It was a good first half for the Republic of Ireland and they can count themselves unlucky not to be ahead at the break. Not much can be done, though, when someone pulls off a wonder strike like Tornike Okriashvili's.

Northern Ireland, meanwhile, had done well against Hungary and were just starting to put pressure on the home side before the half-time whistle blew.

@ScottishFA

Scottish FA: Things could get noisy when the team board the bus. . .

Build-up of Germany v Scotland and live text commentary is right here from 19:00 BST.

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

Former England striker Ian Wright tells 606 on BBC Radio 5 live that England should play their Euro 2016 qualifiers away from Wembley to generate more interest. "We need to take the football to stadiums where people are going to lift the players," he says.

Get in touch, call 0500 909 693, text 85058 and use the hashtag @bbc606 on social media.

What about Wembley?

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

FA Club England managing director Adrian Bevington is a guest of 606 on BBC Radio 5 live with Ian Wright and Kelly Cates.

After confirming that England are tied in to playing at Wembley, where just 40,181 watched England beat Norway last week, to pay off the costs of the stadium, he said: "We don't want to be playing games at a half-full Wembley. We have to make sure we are putting ticket prices in place and making tickets accessible for people at the lowest possible prices so that we can fill the ground."

Get in touch, call 0500 909 693, text 85058 and use the hashtag @bbc606 on social media.

HALF-TIME

HALF-TIME

CLOSE!

Hungary are making mistakes at the back and Northern Ireland almost capitalise as Corry Evans lashes over from the middle of the area after Peter Gulacsi blocked a shot from Jamie Ward.

Very good opening - and arguably one from which NI should have scored.

Building bridges

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

FA Club England managing director Adrian Bevington is a guest of 606 on BBC Radio 5 live with Ian Wright and Kelly Cates.

On re-engaging with England's supporters after a poor World Cup campaign, he said: "It's always difficult when you come back from a tournament that has not gone as we would have liked and there's a fair bit of disappointment.

"It's crucial as a an organisation that we are looking after supporters, listening to supporters and talking to supporters while at the same time building a team that's exciting to watch."

Get in touch, call 0500 909 693, text 85058 and use the hashtag @bbc606 on social media.

YELLOW CARD

Ollie Norwood goes in late on Jozsef Varga and earns himself a yellow card. A few jeers from the home crowd but that appears to be directed to their side as Hungary struggle to contain Northern Ireland.

Reuters

Of course, the lead did not last until the break. And with Georgia's equaliser there has been an undoubted change of momentum - and the atmosphere has ratcheted up a notch or two.

GOAL

A simply stunning goal! Republic of Ireland had looked comfortable but out of nothing Georgia are level. Tornike Okriashvili brings a ball under control five yards outside the away side's area. He tries to twist and turn his way past John O'Shea and Stephen Ward but can't get past so opts for a speculative right-footed effort that loops over a stranded David Forde. Amazing goal.

PA

Martin O'Neill kicking every ball in his technical area, and covering quite a lot of ground as well. A half chance for Georgia but skipper Jaba Kankava's weak shot on the turn does not cause much threat - although it is deflected out for a corner - and he injures himself in the process. No matter, tough lads these Georgians and he is able to carry on.

Plenty of niggly challenges have disrupted Northern Ireland's play and Hungary are on the attack at the moment. Balazs Dzsudzsak's free-kick into the box is headed away by Aaron Hughes, before the home side's captain sends in a cross from the left which Roy Carroll punches away.

PA

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

Just a reminder that the lines are now open for 606 with Ian Wright and Kelly Cates on BBC 5 live, from 17:00 BST.

They want to know why no-one seems to be excited about England any more. Plus Adrian Bevington from the English Football Association will be taking listeners questions - what would you like to ask him?

Later today Scotland take on the World Champions Germany - what chance have they got?

Get in touch, call 0500 909 693, text 85058 and use the hashtag @bbc606 on social media.

Akaki Khubutia heads a cross from Seamus Coleman out for a corner. The Republic have looked effective down the flanks. Georgia? They look short of ideas.

Former Republic of Ireland international Steven Reid: Great finish.

Blackburn and Republic of Ireland defender Shane Duffy: Get in there.

Ex-Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane: That's a big goal. It'll settle the boys down a bit.

Hungary have gained a bit of a foothold on this game after Northern Ireland's bright start and there are some relieved faces in the away side's defence as Gergely Rudolf scampers towards the box, but opts to shoot early with defenders backing off and his low drive is gratefully scooped up by Roy Carroll.

Getty Images

GOAL

Moments after Georgia go close through Nikoloz Gelashvili, the Republic of Ireland take the lead as a neat dummy from Robbie Keane plays in James McCarthy, who in turn picks out Aiden McGeady and he slots a left-foot shot into the net from 18 yards. Clinical from Martin O'Neill's team.

PA

Reuters

Plenty of hand waving and gesticulating from Georgia coach Temuri Ketsbaia, and perhaps with good reason as his side look more like the away team at the moment. Aiden McGeady tries to get a cross in from the left, but it is headed away from the area. The Republic of Ireland are looking comfortable on the ball.

BBC Radio 5 live presenter Mark Pougatch: German TV (in Basel) showing caber tossing & Mark McGhee (Hamburg 1984-85) taking about lederhosen. Truly the Euro qualifiers are upon us.

Former Republic of Ireland international Kevin Kilbane: Good luck to the Republic of Ireland tonight v Georgia and for the rest of the campaign.

One from the training ground by Hungary as a corner is swung to Roland Juhasz outside the Northern Ireland area. The defender's first-time shot hits the ground and bounces into the area towards a crowd of players where Vilmos Vanczak tries to sneak a shot in, but Roy Carroll is behind it.

Chaos and confusion. Georgia want an offside as Robbie Keane rushes through to collect Aiden McGeady's through ball. It does not come and Giorgi Loria comes charging out of his goal and rather flaps at his clearance as Keane, predatory as ever, hounds his man.

The Republic of Ireland are probing the Georgia defence at the moment, looking for any gaps to exploit. None have presented themselves so far but a great start for the away side, who are dominating possession. Still no shots on goal from either side as yet.

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Jonathan Cowan: Hopefully a win for Northern Ireland, the Republic and Scotland later.

Reuters

Conor McLaughlin evades the leg of a sliding Hungary defender as Northern Ireland attack again. The midfielder swings in a cross for Kyle Lafferty, who cushions a header over the bar.

The away side are not being intimidated by the vocal home crowd at the moment.

A quietish start in Georgia - which will probably suit Martin O'Neill and his team. Georgia striker Nikoloz Gelashvili has been lively so far, looking to get on the end of some raking long balls.

Brave tactics by Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill as his side appear to be playing with three at the back. Entertaining stuff in the early stages as Jamie Ward stabs a shot at goal before Balazs Dzsudzsak pokes wide at the other end. Very open start.

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Andrew in Richill via text: For the first time in a long time there is a genuine sense of optimism and hope that Northern Ireland could just qualify for a major competition. Michael O'Neill is building a solid team and also getting his tactics just right, and with more teams qualifying for Euro 2016 this could be a great chance. It's been a long time since Mexico 1986!

KICK-OFF

Under way in today's Euro 2016 qualifying early kick-offs, can Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland get their campaigns going with a win? Time to find out.

BBC Sport's Joel Taggart in Budapest: Happy David Healy day! Hard to believe it is nine years ago. Can someone else be the hero in Hungary?

Turn away now England fans. It was 7 September 2005 when Healy's 74th minute goal sank England in a World Cup qualifier in Belfast, one of the most famous nights in Northern Ireland's history.

Sold out at the Groupama Arena and you can tell, superb atmosphere. Kick-off moments away...

Former Northern Ireland international Keith Gillespie: Made my debut for Northern Ireland 20 years ago today. Also nine years ago today wasn't a bad wee night. Where do the years go?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Sanj: And so it begins again. The other Home Nations attempt to qualify for a major tournament. Good luck to them!

@officialirishfa

Official Irish FA: The noise is building.

Teams are heading out on to the pitches in Budapest and Tbilisi as the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland prepare to get their qualifying campaigns under way. National anthems up shortly.

Other

That game finished 1-0 to Northern Ireland. I'm sure they would settle for that this evening.

©William Cherry / Presseye

Some Northern Ireland fans have got to their seats nice and early.

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Dave Hawthorne: Can't believe @billymckay22 isn't getting a start tonight for northern ireland, best striker we have!

Mark Kennedy: It will be a easy win tonight for Germany wouldn't be surprised if it was a 5-0 hammering.

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill: "We have had friendly games, we have tried to look at as many players over that time because it is a long road to France, and we are going to try and be as prepared as we can.

On Stephen Quinn starting: "We want Glenn Whelan to sit as much as possible and allows James McCarthy and Stephen Quinn to get forward and help Robbie Keane."

PA

Northern Ireland fans have been oiling their voice boxes this afternoon - but will they have much to cheer about later? Just under 20 minutes until kick off.

Get involved

606 phone-in

BBC Radio 5 live

The lines are now open for 606 with Ian Wright and Kelly Cates on BBC 5 live, from 17:00 BST.

They want to know why no-one seems to be excited about England any more. Plus Adrian Bevington from the English Football Association will be taking listeners questions - what would you like to ask him?

Later today Scotland take on the World Champions Germany - what chance have they got?

Get in touch, call 0500 909 693, text 85058 and use the hashtag @bbc606 on social media.

High-scoring Healy

Getty Images

An appearance at a European Championship tournament has so far eluded Northern Ireland.

The closest they have come in recent years was in qualifying for Euro 2008 when they finished third in Group F, six points behind Sweden, who qualified automatically in second place.

That was the campaign David Healy broke the record for goals scored in one European campaign, banging in 13 in Northern Ireland's 12 games. He scored six more goals than Cristiano Ronaldo in that campaign. SIX. Amazing scenes.

Getty Images

For the Republic of Ireland, it is just two years since they last appeared at the finals of a European Championship.

They were drawn in a tough Group C at the tournament in Poland and Ukraine, losing 3-1 to Croatia in their opening game and then 4-0 to eventual champions Spain. Their campaign ended with a 2-0 defeat to Italy.

Prior to that they competed at Euro '88, pictured above, and although they beat England 1-0 in their opening Group B game thanks to a Ray Houghton goal, they failed to progress to the next stage after drawing with the Soviet Union and losing to the Netherlands.

Getty Images

As mentioned in the previous entry, this game is Martin O'Neill's first competitive match in charge of the Republic of Ireland.

Since his appointment in November last year, O'Neill has overseen two wins and three draws in eight games.

This will surely be a fixture O'Neill and assistant Roy Keane will have pencilled down as a potential win, especially with tougher opponents in the shape of Germany, Poland and Scotland to come.

Northern Ireland goalkeeping coach Maik Taylor: Game time! Come on lads, let's get off to a good start.

Republic boss Martin O'Neill has selected David Forde ahead of veteran keeper Shay Given for the Tbilisi qualifier.

Given was handed his first start in two years in Wednesday's 2-0 win over Oman but Forde gets the nod for O'Neill's first competitive game in charge. An experimental line-up for the Oman friendly is replaced by an experienced Irish team.

Republic of Ireland: Forde, Coleman, O'Shea, Wilson, Ward, Walters, McCarthy, Whelan, Quinn, McGeady, Keane

@OFFICIALIRISHFA

Official Irish FA: Michael O'Neill and Steven Davis pictured in Budapest ahead of Sunday's Euro 2016 qualifier against Hungary.

Radio, radio

BBC radio has got Northern Ireland and Scotland covered. Michael McNamee presents coverage of Hungary v Northern Ireland on BBC Radio Ulster from 16:30 BST. Commentary by Joel Taggart and former Northern Ireland international John O'Neill. Then from 19:00 BST you can listen to full commentary on Germany v Scotland on 5 live.

Before then on Radio 5 live Club England managing director Adrian Bevington will be on 606 answering listeners questions with Kelly Cates and Ian Wright, between 17:30-18:00 BST. The show starts at 17:00 BST.

You can also listen to them all by clicking the 'Live Coverage' tab at the top of this page.

PA

Ketsbaiaaaaaaa

Getty Images

Followers of the Premier League in the late 1990s will see a familiar face in the Georgia dugout.

Temuri Ketsbaia, the bald-headed former striker and cult legend of Newcastle United fame, has been in charge of his native Georgia since 2009.

He has quite a job on his hands too, the Eastern European side have failed to qualify for any major tournament since the national team was formed in 1990.

Ice-cold water anyone?

PA

Cheer up, it might never happen.

How about 'roll up, roll up', there is business to be done outside the stadium in Tblisi.

Team news

Norwich striker Kyle Lafferty makes his first Northern Ireland start since November 2012 when he leads the attack against Hungary in Budapest. Lafferty, 26, joined the Canaries during the summer from Italian club Palermo.

Fleetwood defender Conor McLaughlin makes his competitive debut and only four players survive from the team which started the final World Cup qualifier away to Israel - keeper Roy Carroll and midfielders Steve Davis, Chris Baird and Corry Evans

Northern Ireland: R Carroll (Notts County), C McLaughlin (Fleetwood), A Hughes (Brighton), G McAuley (West Brom), C Brunt (West Brom), S Davis (Southampton), C Baird (West Brom), O Norwood (Reading), C Evans (Blackburn), K Lafferty (Norwich), J Ward (Derby County).

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

As always, these live text commentaries are nothing without your opinions, so why not have your say on all things Euro 2016?

Our focus today is very much on the trials and tribulations of Scotland, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland so send in your thoughts on how you think those teams will fare in qualifying. Are you confident they can progress? What are your national team's strengths and limitations?

Also, do you think there will be a surprise team qualifying? If so, who and why? Gibraltar, maybe...?

So get involved via the usual methods - tweet to #bbcfootball, text to 81111 (UK only) or head along ton the BBC Sport Facebook and Google+ pages if you need a few more characters to get your view across.

officialirishfa

Official Irish FA: The Groupama Arena will be bouncing when over 1,050 Northern Ireland fans pack in to the ground.

OK then, that's all from the England camp and we can switch focus back to today's action. Scotland face Germany at 19:45 BST, but first up, the Republic of Ireland play Georgia and Northern Ireland face Hungary looking to get some early qualifying points on the board. We should be getting team news for those games any time now.

England news conference

Roy Hodgson describes Switzerland as a 'big test' for his England side but is confident of returning with a positive result.

"There are lot of reasons to be cheerful," the Three Lions boss adds. "If you are able to put the fact the World Cup was a major disappointment behind us, then we have a squad of players who have the desire to do well for their country.

"There are 10 players not here who would have been serious contenders to play. Put that all together and you are looking at a large group of players. I think that bodes well for us in two to four years time, when they will all have played a lot more games for their Premier League clubs."

England news conference

England took four points from a possible six against Switzerland in the last European Championship qualifying campaign, But Three Lions skipper Wayne Rooney says that will mean nothing on Monday.

"Four years ago was a long time ago," he adds. "It was a completely different team to what it is now. We have to look to the future and to the game tomorrow. There's no point looking back.

"There is certainly a determination [to put on a performance]. We are a tight knit group and we are working hard to get the best out of each other."

England news conference

PA

Asked what would be a good result for England away to Switzerland on Monday, England manager Roy Hodgson says: "When you talk about what would be a good result it depends to some extent on what happens in the game.

"If you are losing 1-0 with 10 minutes to go and you get an equaliser, you come away thinking that was a good result. It would be foolish to start saying this would be a good a result or that would be.

"I want the result but we do have to lift our heads a little bit and performances, and how we play is important."

England news conference

England striker Wayne Rooney insists the Three Lions are well prepared for their Euro 2016 qualifier with Switzerland on Monday.

"We are ready," he says. "We have had a bit more time to prepare for the game this week and I think we've prepared well," adds the Manchester United forward. "It is going to be a big test but I think we've got the quality to do well.

"We are focused on the game and we are ready for the game and hopefully we can get the result we want."

England news conference

First up, though, we will take a slight digital detour to Basel, where England manager Roy Hodgson and striker Wayne Rooney have just held a news conference to preview Monday's game against Switzerland.

Their thoughts coming up in the next few entries....

Getty Images

Hello and welcome to our coverage of qualifying for Euro 2016.

It may feel like mere moments ago since Germany lifted the World Cup trophy at the Maracana stadium in Brazil but, for national teams across Europe, the quest for international glory starts anew.

Over the next few hours we will embark on a veritable jaunt across the continent as we take in Tbilisi for Georgia versus the Republic of Ireland, bob over to Budapest for Northern Ireland's game against Hungary before descending on Dortmund as Scotland face world champions Germany.

Ready for your appetite for international football to be reignited?

New tournament, renewed aspirations

For the Republic of Ireland, it ended in a 2-0 defeat to Italy in 2012...

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For Scotland, it was a hollow win against Switzerland in 1996...

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...and for Northern Ireland, the dream is yet to be realised...

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...but no matter how previous European Championship campaigns ended, it all starts again here.