Slovenia 0-0 Scotland as Pocognoli starts with Nations League draw

The goalless draw gave Slovenia and Scotland one point each in Nations League Group B1. Scotland moved into second place and Slovenia into third, behind Switzerland, which beat North Macedonia 3-0.

Scotland’s second-half pressure

Scotland improved sharply after halftime and created the better chances. Oli McBurnie went through one-on-one with Jan Oblak, but the Slovenia goalkeeper stopped him. McBurnie later headed toward the corner, only for Oblak to make another strong save.

Kieron Bowie also went close after coming on for Robbie Ure. Bowie sent a shot wide with only Oblak to beat. Scotland continued to attack through Andy Robertson and Aaron Hickey, while Billy Gilmour helped control the midfield.

The result was Pocognoli’s first match as Scotland manager. The Belgian replaced Steve Clarke after Scotland’s World Cup exit. Stephen Welsh and Robbie Ure made their Scotland debuts in the starting lineup.

Slovenia’s first-half chances

Slovenia had the stronger opening period. Andraž Šporar had a goal disallowed for offside. Robbie Ure then struck the post for Scotland late in the half.

Scotland changed its shape at halftime and used the wide areas more effectively. The adjustment turned the match in Scotland’s favor, but the visitors did not convert their chances. The 0-0 score gave both goalkeepers a clean sheet.

What comes next for Scotland

Scotland will host Switzerland at Hampden Park on Tuesday. Switzerland leads Group B1 with three points, while Scotland and Slovenia have one point apiece. Slovenia’s next listed match is against North Macedonia on Tuesday.