Scotland manager Sebastien Pocognoli targets his first win in the UEFA Nations League against North Macedonia on Saturday, October 3, at the National Arena Toshe Proeski in Skopje. Racing Post reported that the fixture kicks off at 7.45pm and will be broadcast live on BBC Two in the UK.
When does Scotland play North Macedonia in Skopje?
The Nations League Group B1 fixture takes place on Saturday, October 3, with a 7.45pm kick-off. The match is hosted at the National Arena Toshe Proeski in Skopje. BBC Two is showing the game live in the UK, as noted by Racing Post. Paddy Power News adds that the match is also available via BBC One, BBC iPlayer, and BBC Scotland.
Why is this match crucial for Sebastien Pocognoli?
Sebastien Pocognoli enters his third match in charge of Scotland seeking his first victory and goal. The Belgian coach took over after seven years under Steve Clarke. The Tartan Army opened their campaign with a 0-0 draw against Slovenia before suffering a 3-0 defeat at home against Switzerland. Paddy Power News notes that defeat would drop Scotland to the bottom of Group B1 by a two-point margin at the halfway mark.
How do the two teams form compare ahead of kick-off?
Goce Sedloski’s side suffered a 3-0 home defeat to Switzerland and a 2-0 loss in Slovenia. North Macedonia has generated an xG of just 0.7 across the opening two matchdays, making them one of the lowest-scoring teams among the 54 nations in the competition alongside Kazakhstan, Liechtenstein, Gibraltar, and San Marino. Racing Post lists odds of 12-5 for a North Macedonia win, 3-4 for Scotland, and 4-1 for a draw.
What are the team news and predicted line-ups?
Manager Sebastien Pocognoli is unlikely to abandon his preferred three-at-the-back system despite these absences, especially considering it effectively had to be abandoned after 10 minutes following Hendry’s early dismissal against the Swiss. Stephen Welsh of Swansea City, Dinamo Zagreb’s Scott McKenna—who has played the full 180 minutes over both games—and Brondby debutant Luis Binks are options, while Stoke City’s 22-year-old summer signing Luke Graham waits for his Scotland debut.
What tactical betting markets surround the match?
Hull City striker Oli McBurnie is expected to lead the attack. Paddy Power News tipster Andy Robson suggests Aaron Hickey and Andy Robertson offer value in the shots and fouls-won markets as they operate from wing-back positions.
What are the key betting stats and tips for the fixture?
A Bet Builder featuring under 2.5 total goals, Oli McBurnie to record 1+ shots on target, and Lewis Ferguson to be carded returns approximately £105 for a £10 stake. Dinamo Zagreb defender Scott McKenna and other squad members feature in the competitions centre data on site.
Scotland makes first trip to Skopje in 13 years
Who is the referee for North Macedonia vs Scotland?
The official match referee appointments were not detailed in the available source material for this fixture.
Has Scotland played in Skopje recently?
Paddy Power News reports that this fixture marks Scotland’s first trip to the Macedonian capital in 13 years.
What is North Macedonia’s defensive record in the competition?
North Macedonia has allowed 4.4 expected goals against (xGA), making Israel the only team in Nations League A and B with a higher defensive liability.