Alioski: North Macedonia lost 2-1 to Scotland but showed progress

North Macedonia suffered a 2-1 defeat away to Scotland in the Nations League, but the team ended a run without scoring and showed signs of progress despite the result.

The squad's mood after the match was that the performance represented a step forward, even if the final score brought disappointment. Left back Džani Alioski underlined that the home game against Slovenia in the closing round of this cycle must produce points and the national team's first win.

Alioski gave a detailed assessment of the match and the team's mindset:

“This was a more positive match than the one we played at home. It shows that we learned from the matches behind us and that we can do a lot. If we want to play football, we have quality. There were many aggressive duels, a lot of running and we were great on the pitch. We also managed to score a goal, we created chances. I couldn't comment on the VAR footage, I need to see it. I'm sorry we lost the match. We had chances to get back into the game, but that's football. The positive thing is that we showed we do not give up. This match must be a motivation for us going forward, that we are ready both to play and to duel. We were good one half against Switzerland, and now we were good against Scotland too. When we began to play football, we saw that North Macedonia has returned. In the last match we must not be afraid, we need to play our football and take the three points at home,” he said.

Chance to close the Nations League cycle with a win

Coaches and players will now focus on the final fixture against Slovenia on home soil; Alioski insisted the team must not fear the moment and should aim to secure the three points. The defeat leaves North Macedonia still searching for a first victory in this mini-cycle, but the coaching staff can point to improved attacking play and stronger duels as reasons for cautious optimism.

Photo: press material from the event