McGinn double keeps Scotland hopes alive as Robertson matches caps record

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John McGinn scored both goals as Scotland beat North Macedonia 2–1 at Hampden on Friday, keeping second place in their Nations League group within reach. Captain Andy Robertson marked the occasion by matching Kenny Dalglish’s men’s national appearance record with his 102nd cap.

The victory was Sebastien Pocognoli’s first home win as Scotland head coach. It came after a testing evening in which the hosts created chances but needed a second-half penalty to settle the match.

Scott McTominay and Ché Adams were both denied by Stole Dimitrievski before the interval. Billy Gilmour then missed a clear opportunity early in the second half after Adams had found him close to goal.

McGinn finally broke the deadlock in the 54th minute, running onto a pass from Adams and finishing past Dimitrievski. Scotland’s advantage lasted only three minutes: Elmin Rastoder headed in from Enes Bardhi’s corner to bring North Macedonia level.

The decisive opening followed substitute Oli McBurnie’s pass to Ben Gannon-Doak. Dimitrievski brought the winger down, and a video review persuaded the referee to award a penalty. McGinn converted in the 74th minute for his second goal of the night.

Those strikes took McGinn to 24 international goals and third place in Scotland’s scoring list. Scotland protected the lead over the closing stages, ensuring Robertson’s landmark appearance ended with three points.

Qualification remains dependent on more than Scotland’s own final result. After Slovenia and Switzerland drew, Scotland must win away to Switzerland on Monday, 16 November, and also receive help from North Macedonia against Slovenia to finish second in Group B1.

The trip to St Gallen therefore keeps a promotion play-off place in contention. Robertson could also move clear of Dalglish’s appearance total if he plays in Scotland’s final match of the year.

Sources

• Scottish FA: Official Scotland–North Macedonia match report and appearance milestone (2026-11-13)
• Sky Sports: Independent match report and Scotland’s remaining promotion requirements (2026-11-13)