Scotland 2-1 North Macedonia: John McGinn Double Keeps Nations League Hopes Alive

John McGinn scored twice, including a late penalty, as Scotland came from 1-1 to beat North Macedonia 2-1 at Hampden in the Nations League on Friday night. The win takes Sebastien Pocognoli’s side to seven points, one behind second-placed Slovenia with one game left.

How the game went

Scotland dominated a goalless first half but had to wait until the 54th minute to break through, when McGinn finished from Che Adams’s assist. North Macedonia hit back almost immediately, Elmin Rastoder heading in Enis Bardhi’s cross three minutes later.

Scotland pushed for a winner and got it in the 74th minute, McGinn scoring from the penalty spot. He was named player of the match. Scotland had 18 shots to North Macedonia’s seven.

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Scott McTominay returns

Scott McTominay started his first Nations League game of the campaign after missing the first four matches following heart surgery. He played until the 85th minute.

What it means for the group

Switzerland have already won Group 1 with 13 points after Slovenia held them on Friday. Slovenia are second on eight points, with Scotland a point behind on seven. North Macedonia remain bottom without a point.

Scotland finish away to Switzerland on Monday 16 November, kicking off at 7.45pm, while Slovenia travel to North Macedonia at the same time.