Scotland podcast says North Macedonia trip is must-win after Nations League setback

Scotland’s Nations League pressure mounts ahead of North Macedonia

BBC Radio Scotland’s Scottish Football Podcast has assessed Scotland’s position after a difficult start to the Nations League campaign and asked whether the trip to North Macedonia has become a must-win.

BBC Radio Scotland Scottish Football Podcast artwork for North Macedonia must win episode

Presented by Martin Dowden and joined by Scott Allan and Joelle Murray, the 23-minute episode released on Radio Scotland on 2 October 2026 asks whether Scotland can finally find the goals and points they desperately need in North Macedonia.

The panel assesses the pressure facing head coach Sebastian Pocognoli, the defensive issues exposed against Switzerland and whether patience is already running thin as the campaign develops.

Robertson milestone and squad evolution

The podcast also looks at the leadership role of Andy Robertson as he stands on the brink of a century of caps and what that means for this evolving Scotland side.

Domestic round-up

Beyond the national team, the show covers Scottish club football. The programme includes:

A tribute to Martin Boyle’s testimonial.
An examination of Ian Murray’s departure from Morton.
Cove Rangers being hit by a transfer penalty.
Ayr United’s need for results.
A look ahead to Sunday’s Edinburgh Derby in the SWPL and the title race.

The episode is available for 29 days on BBC Sounds.