# McGinn saves Scotland from embarrassment

> John McGinn’s double saves Scotland from North Macedonia’s threat in Nations League match.
- Title: McGinn saves Scotland from embarrassment · the Guardian
- Summary: John McGinn’s double saves Scotland from North Macedonia’s threat in Nations League match.
- Keywords: scotland, north macedonia, nations league, john mcginn, andy robertson, sebastien pocognoli, kieran tierney, scott mctominay, billy gilmour, the Guardian
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/nov/13/scotland-north-macedonia-nations-league-match-report
- Published: 2026-11-13T22:16:31+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: scotland, north macedonia, nations league, john mcginn, andy robertson, sebastien pocognoli, kieran tierney, scott mctominay, billy gilmour, sports
## Scotland’s record cap
Andy Robertson equalled Kenny Dalglish’s record of 102 caps.
## McGinn’s double save
John McGinn scored Scotland’s second goal from the penalty spot.
## Scotland’s struggle
Scotland faced tough questions about manager Sébastien Pocognoli’s tactics.
## Pocognoli’s tactics
Pocognoli deployed a back three with Kieran Tierney, Scott McTominay and Ché Adams.
## McTominay’s near miss
McTominay struck close to goal but was saved by Dimitrievski.
## Gilmour’s error
Billy Gilmour missed a clear goal opportunity with a wild shot.
## McGinn’s penalty
McGinn converted the penalty kick to secure Scotland’s lead.
## Key takeaway

Scotland beat North Macedonia 2-1 in Nations League with John McGinn scoring two goals, including a penalty, to avoid embarrassment.