From turgid to thrusting - mixed start for new Scotland

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Sebastien Pocognoli’s first match as Scotland head coach ended in a 0-0 draw away to Slovenia in the opening round of their Nations League campaign. The result left a mixed impression: Scotland were slow and disjointed in the first half, but improved sharply after the break and created enough chances to suggest the new approach could work.

According to BBC Scotland chief sports writer Tom English, Pocognoli had set out a more aggressive style based on pressing, speed and attacking intent, but Scotland struggled to deliver that early on in Ljubljana. They did not manage a shot on target before half-time and looked short of rhythm, while Slovenia were also limited in their threat. After the interval, however, Scotland became much more dangerous and controlled large spells of the game.

BBC Sport said Billy Gilmour helped turn the contest Scotland’s way from midfield, while strikers Oli McBurnie, Robbie Ure and Kieron Bowie all had opportunities to score. McBurnie returned to the side after a long absence and had a major chance saved by Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak. Scotland finished with 17 shots, but could not find a breakthrough.

The draw gives Pocognoli an early point but also leaves Scotland with work to do before their next Nations League match against Switzerland at Hampden on Tuesday. The article suggests the second-half performance may offer encouragement, even though the team remain goalless in tournament football for a third straight game.