Scotland's new Belgian boss faces winless start under Pocognoli

Scotland have endured a 3-0 home defeat to Switzerland after a 0-0 away draw with Slovenia, leaving Sebastien Pocognoli winless in his first two Nations League matches as the new manager.

Opening weekend leaves Scotland winless

The weekend began with a goalless draw in Slovenia, a Nations League fixture that offered no breakthrough for the side. Scotland failed to find the net and the result left them still without a victory under Pocognoli.

According to AFP, the Belgian, who guided Monaco to seventh place in Ligue 1 last season, was appointed as Steve Clarke’s successor in August. Fans had hoped the first foreign manager since Berti Vogts (2002‑2004) would build on the post‑World Cup optimism.

Switzerland match turns into a horror show

Scotland’s first home game at Hampden Park turned into a nightmare when Jack Hendry was sent off after just 11 minutes, reducing the hosts to ten men.

Pocognoli says Scotland stay on track after Slovenia defeat

Ricardo Rodriguez converted the ensuing free‑kick, and Murat Yakin’s Swiss side added two more goals in the second half through Nico Elvedi and Zeki Amdouni, sealing a 3-0 loss.

The defeat marked the first time a Scotland manager has failed to win his opening two games since George Burley in May 2008, and it extended a four‑match goalless run – a streak not seen since 1971.

Pocognoli reflects on defeat and looks ahead

Despite the loss, the 39‑year‑old said, “They worked with ten men for 80 minutes, maybe more, they showed great character to stick together for that time.” He added that the red card was “the worst scenario” and that the team could have managed the situation better.

Pocognoli also warned that Scotland were on the cusp of failing to score in five successive games for the first time in history. He expressed pride in the players’ resilience and said the side will aim for a “nice night to remember” when they travel to face North Macedonia on Saturday.