After 30 years of failure, inside Tony Docherty’s plan to revive Scotland’s under-21s

Scotland Under-21 manager Tony Docherty is working to revitalize the youth national team and establish a clear identity aligned with the senior setup following decades of disappointment. Despite missing out on European Championship qualification, Docherty's side demonstrated their progress by defeating Azerbaijan at Rugby Park, overcoming an early deficit by adhering to new tactical principles.

The Under-21 side mirrored senior manager Sebastien Pocognoli's 3-4-1-2 system, highlighted by a brace from Barney Stewart, four assists from Findlay Curtis, and goals from James Wilson and Bobby Wales. Docherty praised the squad's bravery, professional attitude, and collective identity as they prepare to conclude their campaign against Bulgaria.