Scotland drew 0-0 with Slovenia in a Nations League opener that marked Sébastien Pocognoli's first match in charge of the national team. Scotland improved in the second half and nearly secured a win, according to Yahoo Sports.
Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay did not feature for Scotland in the match, as he is recovering from a heart procedure, according to The Guardian. Pocognoli said McTominay, who can play in multiple positions, is expected to return for the team in November, per The Guardian.
Commentators offered mixed early assessments of Pocognoli's approach. BBC Radio Scotland analyst Michael Stewart said he had 'concerns' about the tactical system Pocognoli is using, questioning whether it would best showcase the squad's talent, according to Yahoo Sports.
Scotland are next scheduled to play Switzerland as the Nations League window continues.
How each side covered it
Left
- The Guardian highlighted Scott McTominay's absence due to a heart procedure and his expected return in November.
- Reports noted Pocognoli's comments describing McTominay as a versatile, top-level player.
“McTominay’s role a poser for Pocognoli as Scotland offer positives in Slovenia” — The Guardian
Center
- BBC News described a cautious fan reception for Pocognoli after his first game in charge.
- Yahoo Sports reported analyst Michael Stewart's concerns about Scotland's tactical system under Pocognoli.
- BBC Sport examined broader takeaways from Pocognoli's debut match.
“Tartan Army give Sebastien Pocognoli cautious welcome after first Scotland game” — BBC News
Questions readers ask
What happened in Scotland's Nations League opener?
Scotland drew 0-0 away to Slovenia in Sébastien Pocognoli's first match as head coach, a Nations League fixture.
Why wasn't Scott McTominay playing for Scotland?
According to The Guardian, Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay was absent while recovering from a heart procedure, and Pocognoli said he is expected back in November.
What did commentators say about Pocognoli's tactics?
BBC Radio Scotland analyst Michael Stewart said he had concerns that Pocognoli's chosen system might not best showcase Scotland's talent, according to Yahoo Sports.
What is Scotland's next match?
Scotland are scheduled to face Switzerland in their next Nations League fixture.
Sources · 4 outlet reports
- The GuardianLeft-leaningPocognoli deserves time but Scottish FA must also prove its credentials
- BBC NewsCenterPocognoli may require patience to deliver on Scotland shake-up
- BBC SportCenterScotland: What we learned from Pocognoli's first game
- Yahoo SportsCenterStewart has 'concerns' over Scotland system