The match stayed level through the first half, when Scotland had possession but found few clear gaps. The hosts improved after the interval and McGinn gave them the lead. North Macedonia replied quickly, yet Scotland remained patient and created the decisive chance later in the half.
The game was played on 13 November in Glasgow. Scotland made five changes from their previous match. Scott McTominay and Che Adams returned, while Kieran Tierney, Ryan Porteous and Luke Graham also came into the starting side.
McGinn changed the match after half-time
Scotland went ahead in the 54th minute. McGinn found space near the penalty area and completed the attack. North Macedonia answered three minutes later through Reshat Ramadani Rastoder, so the home side had to rebuild its pressure rather than protect an early lead.
McGinn scored again in the 74th minute. His second goal took his Scotland total to 24 and moved him into third place on the national team’s all-time scoring list. The midfielder again showed why his runs into the penalty area are difficult to track.
- John McGinn scored in the 54th and 74th minutes.
- North Macedonia equalised through Rastoder in the 57th minute.
- Andy Robertson made his 102nd Scotland appearance.
Robertson matched a national appearance record
Andy Robertson made his 102nd senior appearance for Scotland and equalled Sir Kenny Dalglish’s national record. The captain played on the left and helped the team control the closing stages after the second goal.
Pocognoli used three central defenders and asked the wing-backs to provide width. That shape allowed McTominay and McGinn to move forward from midfield. Scotland still had to defend several direct attacks, but the team kept its tactical shape after scoring the second goal.
The result gives the new head coach a useful base for the next international match. Scotland created more danger after moving the ball faster and bringing midfielders closer to Adams. The team will want to reproduce that rhythm for a longer period.
For McGinn, the two goals added another important night to a long international career. For Scotland, the main value was the victory and a stronger second-half performance in front of the home support.