Scotland claim first Nations League win as Brazil rival advances

Scotland defeated North Macedonia 2‑0 on Saturday at the Toše Proeski Arena in Skopje, earning their first victory of the Nations League campaign and keeping them level with Brazil’s group‑stage opponent from the last World Cup.

Goals and key moments

Kieron Bowie opened the scoring after seven minutes, receiving a well‑timed pass from Gilmour and finishing into the left corner past Dimitrievski. John McGinn doubled the lead on 24 minutes of the second half, converting a penalty after a handball by Miovski was confirmed by VAR.

The match also saw a red card when Scott McKenna was sent off in the 38th minute for a reckless challenge on Elezi, leaving Scotland with ten men.

Implications for the group

With the win, Scotland moved to three points, maintaining third place in Group 1 of League B with a total of four points. North Macedonia remain at the bottom of the group, still without a point.

Pocognoli says Scotland stay on track after Slovenia defeat

The result means Scotland stay in contention for a possible promotion play‑off, while Brazil’s World Cup rival will look to improve their standing in the next round.

Broadcast worldwide, the match reached fans across the Mundo, highlighting the growing interest in the Nations League.

Com the victory, Scotland (ESC) demonstrated resilience despite the numerical disadvantage, and will travel to Hampden Park for their next fixture against Slovenia on 6 October.

North Macedonia’s next challenge comes against Switzerland at the Arena Thermoplan in Lucerne on the same day.