No excuses as Pocognoli seeks first Hampden victory

Sebastien Pocognoli faces a key test as Scotland host North Macedonia, seeking his first victory at Hampden as head coach. Scotland have lost both home games under him, conceding five goals and scoring once, and their defeat by Slovenia exposed weaknesses in intensity, creativity and organisation.

Scotland won 2-0 in Skopje earlier in Pocognoli’s tenure, and several players are now available or in stronger form. Scott McTominay, Kieran Tierney and Che Adams have returned, while Ben Gannon-Doak and Ryan Christie have gained more regular club football. Pocognoli says intensity is non-negotiable and appears likely to retain a back three, while stressing that he adapts his formation to the squad.