Another six points gone. 📉 Hamilton Academical face their third penalty of the season, leaving them in a desperate survival scrap. Is the new ownership enough to turn the tide? Give us your thoughts on the Accies points crisis below! 🔴⚪⚽ #Accies #HamiltonAcademical #SPFL #LeagueOne #ScottishFootball
The UEFA Nations League has become a permanent and influential part of the international football calendar, and the 2026/27 edition is no different. With all 54 UEFA member associations involved, the league phase draw plays a crucial role in shaping the competition, determining who plays who and setting the path for promotion, relegation and progression to the latter stages. The league phase draw will take place on 12 February 2026, and while the format may appear complex at first glance, it follows a structured and carefully controlled system designed to balance competitiveness, logistics and political considerations. Four Leagues, One Structure All participating nations are divided into four leagues — A, B, C and D — based on the official UEFA access list. Final league placements are subject to confirmation following the 2024/25 Nations League C/D play-offs, which conclude in March 2026. Where final positions are still undecided at the time of the draw, placeholder teams are used. Leagues A, B and C each consist of 16 teams, split into four groups of four. Teams in these leagues play six matchesduring the league phase, facing each opponent home and away. League D is smaller, containing six teams divided into two groups of three. Teams in League D play four matches, again on a home-and-away basis. Seedings and Draw Pots Explained To ensure balance, teams within each league are split into draw pots based on their rankings. In League A, the top 16-ranked nations are divided evenly: Pot 1 includes the highest-ranked teams Pots 2 to 4 follow in descending order The same structure applies to Leagues B and C, with teams ranked 17th to 48th distributed across four pots in each league. For League D, the remaining six teams are split into two pots: Pot 1 contains four teams Pot 2 contains the remaining two In cases where rankings depend on unresolved play-off ties, placeholders are used during the draw and later replaced once results are confirmed. Step-by-Step Draw Procedure The draw begins with League D, followed by Leagues C, B and finally A. League D is drawn first. Teams from Pot 1 are allocated alternately between groups D1 and D2 until the pot is empty. Pot 2 then completes the groups, ensuring both contain three teams. For Leagues C, B and A, the process is identical. Pot 1 teams are drawn first and placed sequentially into groups (C1 to C4, B1 to B4, A1 to A4). This process is repeated for Pots 2, 3 and 4. Once complete, each group contains exactly one team from each pot. This method ensures competitive balance while avoiding clusters of similarly ranked teams. Draw Conditions and Restrictions UEFA applies several draw conditions to manage political sensitivities, travel demands and weather risks. Prohibited clashes prevent certain nations from being drawn together. For this draw, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo cannot be placed in the same League B group. Other political restrictions do not apply, as affected teams are in different leagues. Excessive travel restrictions are also enforced. A group may contain no more than one pairing of teams where travel time exceeds eight hours. This rule primarily affects League C, where several long-distance pairings have been identified. If a drawn team would create a second excessive travel pairing in a group, the computer-assisted system redirects the team to the next available group. Winter venue conditions add another layer of complexity. Seven nations are classed as having a medium or high risk of severe winter weather. No more than two winter-risk countries may be placed in the same group. This restriction mainly impacts League C, where multiple winter-risk teams appear across different pots. UEFA’s computer system actively monitors all these conditions during the draw and intervenes automatically when a conflict arises, ensuring the process remains compliant without delaying proceedings. Who Is in the Draw? Every UEFA member association takes part, ranging from elite nations in League A to developing sides in League D. Well-established footballing powers headline League A, while competitive and ambitious nations populate League B — including Scotland, who will be hoping for a favourable draw and a push for promotion. Leagues C and D feature a mix of emerging teams, smaller football nations and those fighting to climb the international ladder. Key Dates for the Competition Following the draw in February 2026, the league phase takes place across six matchdays between September and November 2026. The competition then moves into knockout and play-off stages in March 2027, with the Nations League Finals scheduled for June 2027. Promotion and relegation play-offs involving Leagues C and D conclude in March 2028. A Carefully Balanced System While intricate, the Nations League draw is designed to deliver fairness, excitement and logistical realism. From seeding pots and structured group allocation to travel limits and winter safeguards, every element is built to ensure a competitive and manageable international campaign. As anticipation builds ahead of the draw, nations across Europe will be watching closely — because in the Nations League, a good or bad draw can define an entire international cycle. Who Is Involved in the 2026/27 Nations League Draw? All 54 UEFA member associations will take part in the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League, with teams allocated across four leagues based on their current ranking and recent performance. The draw pots for each league have been finalised, pending the outcome of the League C/D play-offs in March 2026, which will confirm the final placeholders. League A Europe’s elite nations make up League A, with the continent’s top-ranked sides spread evenly across four pots to ensure balance in each group. Pot 1: Portugal, Spain, France, Germany Pot 2: Italy, Netherlands, Denmark, Croatia Pot 3: Serbia, Belgium, England, Norway Pot 4: Wales, Czechia, Greece, Türkiye These teams will compete for places in the quarter-finals and ultimately the Nations League Finals in 2027. League B League B is traditionally one of the most competitive sections, featuring strong nations aiming for promotion to the top tier or looking to avoid relegation. Pot 1:
Ally McCoist has never been short of stories, but even by his own standards, one tale he recently shared left an Edinburgh audience in disbelief — and laughter. Speaking in the capital, the former Rangers and Scotland striker revealed how he once found himself separating players from Hearts and Hibernian during a fiery derby clash… while wearing the Hearts mascot costume. The incident dates back to the mid-1990s, a time when Edinburgh derbies were rarely short on needle. McCoist, still an active player at Rangers at the time, was in the city on media duties for a high-profile match at Tynecastle. What was meant to be a routine appearance took an unexpected turn after a pre-match visit to George Street, where a few celebratory drinks led to an impulsive decision that would become part of Scottish football folklore. Spotting the Hearts employee responsible for donning the club’s Hearty Harry mascot outfit, McCoist struck up a conversation and suggested a switch. What began as a light-hearted prank quickly escalated into something far more surreal. Moments later, McCoist found himself fully disguised, oversized head and all, making his way towards the tunnel as half-time approached — blissfully unaware of the chaos unfolding below. As tempers flared between players from Hearts and Hibs following a bruising first half, the tunnel became the scene of a heated confrontation. Into the middle of it walked Hearty Harry. Or rather, Ally McCoist in disguise. With players squaring up and officials struggling to regain control, the costumed figure stepped in, physically separating opposing players who had no idea who was behind the mascot’s grin. Arms outstretched, McCoist recalled grabbing hold of senior figures from both sides in an attempt to calm the situation. To the astonishment of everyone present, the fight was broken up by a club mascot. Not a steward. Not a referee. A mascot. Only later would those involved realise just how bizarre the intervention truly was. Remarkably, McCoist then returned to the pitch to perform the mascot duties as if nothing had happened, dancing along the touchline and playing to the Hearts support. It was only after being encouraged to take a bow that the full reveal took place. Announced over the stadium microphone, McCoist removed the mascot head in front of thousands of stunned supporters, triggering disbelief in the Hearts end and predictable fury from the visiting Hibs fans. The story was shared during an appearance at the Edinburgh International Book Festival, where McCoist was promoting his autobiography Dear Scotland: On the Road with the Tartan Army. The book reflects not only on his glittering playing career but also on his life travelling with Scotland supporters and his deep affection for the national game north of the border. Now one of the country’s most recognisable football broadcasters, McCoist has enjoyed a hugely successful second career in the media. Regularly appearing on television and radio across the UK, he has become known for his warmth, humour and unmistakable passion for football. Recently voted the nation’s favourite co-commentator by a wide margin, his popularity shows no sign of fading. Despite working extensively in England, McCoist also offered a typically candid view on Scotland’s relationship with the Auld Enemy. While he admits he is happy to see England do well in major tournaments, he made it clear there is a limit to that goodwill. Progress beyond a certain stage, he joked, is where support turns to discomfort — a sentiment many Scottish fans will recognise. The evening also took a more reflective turn when McCoist spoke about the late Walter Smith, dedicating a chapter of his book to the man he credits as one of the most influential figures in his life. Smith, who managed McCoist at Rangers and later appointed him as assistant with the Scotland national team, was described with deep affection and respect. McCoist spoke of Smith’s unique blend of kindness and authority, portraying him as a leader who commanded loyalty without ever demanding it. He placed Smith alongside the most revered names in British football history, pointing to near-misses at the very highest level as evidence of his managerial brilliance. From tequila-fuelled mascot antics to heartfelt tributes to a mentor, McCoist’s stories captured the full range of his football life — chaotic, emotional, humorous, and deeply rooted in the Scottish game. It was a reminder that while trophies and titles define careers on paper, it is moments like these that truly endure.
The King has arrived on The Warm-Up. Sir Kenneth Dalglish joins Kris Boyd, Steven Naismith and the man he signed for a British transfer record (Warm-Up host Chris Sutton!) as this month’s big guest. In a comprehensive interview, which starts with early days playing in youth teams in Glasgow and launching his career in Junior football, King Kenny talks about what drove him to become arguably the greatest player Scotland has ever produced. He talks candidly about growing up in the Lions’ Den at Celtic, alongside the players who won the European Cup, and about his relationship with legendary manager Jock Stein, including what happened when he decided to leave the Bhoys. His move south to Anfield and how it unfolded is discussed before he talks about playing in one of the great Liverpool sides. His surprise promotion to player-manager is covered, as is his time in charge on Merseyside, at Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers – where he sealed another historic title triumph. Not surprisingly he has a few stories about Warm-Up host Chris, including how his record signing fancied himself as centre half and once squared up to Ian Wright! Kenny talks openly about his return to Paradise and what went wrong during the ‘John Barnes season’ and his decision to ‘join’ Rangers as Director of Football. Or was it International Scout..? Watch the full episode as Kenny Dalglish meets Chris Sutton, Kris Boyd and Steven Naismith on The Warm-Up.
The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) has today confirmed details for the final weekend of the 2025/26 William Hill Premiership season. Top-six matches will take place on Saturday May 16, kick-off 12.30pm, while bottom-six games will be played on Sunday May 17, kick-off TBC. The other post-split dates are the weekends of April 25/26, May 2/3 and May 9/10 and the midweek of May 12/13. Post-split fixtures and broadcast selections will be published as soon as possible following fixture round 33 on the weekend of April 11/12. Meanwhile, SPFL clubs involved in the play-off round of a UEFA competition next season will again be able to postpone their William Hill Premiership round three fixture without needing the agreement of their opponents. There was unanimous support for the continuation of this policy from the Competitions Working Group, but clubs will be required to confirm their position by Friday July 24 to provide clarity ahead of the 2026/27 season kicking off on the weekend of August 1/2. SPFL Chief Operating Officer Calum Beattie said: “We are pleased to be able to publish arrangements for the final weekend of the William Hill Premiership season. It promises to be an incredibly exciting run-in and we look forward to watching it all unfold. “We can also announce a continuation of the round three postponement policy that came into effect this season. This has been welcomed by clubs and, although the fixture calendar remains extremely congested, we want to give our European participants the best possible chance of reaching the league phase of UEFA competitions.”
CRAIG FOWLER FROM A VIEW FROM THE TERRACE NAMES HIS WILLIAM HILL SPFL XI… GK – Max Thompson (Ayr United) The loanee from Newcastle United impressed on his debut as Scott Brown’s Ayr United defeated Raith Rovers at Somerset Park by two goals to one. DEF – Julián Araujo (Celtic) The full-back was a clear choice for man-of-the-match as Celtic displayed their ruthlessness to defeat Falkirk 2-0 at Celtic Park on Sunday and stay within six points of Hearts at the top of the William Hill Premiership. DEF – Charlie McArthur (Airdrieonians) The 20-year-old put in a terrific performance at the back as Airdrie got themselves a huge three points in the second-tier relegation dogfight, winning 2-0 at Dunfermline Athletic. DEF – Ethan Schilte-Brown (Kilmarnock) Another young centre-back putting in a big performance for a relegation-threatened side, Schilte-Brown, along with centre-back partner Robbie Deas, was dominant and Killie got their first victory since October with a 3-0 triumph over Aberdeen at Rugby Park. DEF – Zak Delaney (Greenock Morton) After seven games without a win in all competitions, Greenock Morton got back to winning ways on Saturday, defeating Ross County 2-1. Delaney was a clear choice for the home side’s man-of-the-match. MID – Seb Drozd (Queen’s Park) The midfielder has been the Spiders’ best player in recent weeks and he continued that form with another top performance and the winning goal in Queen’s 2-1 win over Arbroath. MID – Innes Lawson (Edinburgh City) City got themselves a huge three points in the fight to avoid the play-offs at the bottom of William Hill League Two, defeating Dumbarton – the side immediately above them at the foot of the table – thanks to a double from Lawson in a 2-1 victory. MID – Jack MacIver (Elgin City) MacIver got on the scoresheet twice but it wasn’t enough to earn Elgin City all three points as they were pegged back on three occasions by league-leaders Spartans, drawing 3-3. FWD – Tawanda Maswanishe (Motherwell) The leading goalscorer in the William Hill Premiership took his tally to 13 for the season with a double in Motherwell’s 2-0 victory at Livingston. FWD – Taylor Sutherland (Montrose) This week’s Star Man bagged a hat-trick as he put Montrose in front on three occasions away to East Fife as Stewart Petrie’s men returned to winning ways in William Hill League One, defeating East Fife 3-2 at New Bayview. FWD – Pierre Landry Kabore (Heart of Midlothian) Hearts finish the weekend six points clear at the top of the table after defeating Dundee United 3-0 on Saturday night. Kabore bagged a double during the match and impressed with his hold-up play for the Jambos.
Aberdeen’s away woes reached a new low as they suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat to Kilmarnock, leaving fans in disbelief and frustration.After a promising 6-2 win over Livingston just days prior, the Dons appeared lifeless at Rugby Park, highlighting their ongoing struggles in finding a permanent manager.
A Rangers supporter has tragically passed away in Portugal ahead of the club’s Europa League fixture against FC Porto, casting a sombre mood over what was meant to be a gathering of travelling fans in the city. The supporter, who has not been publicly named, is understood to have died overnight from natural causes while in Porto. Rangers FC confirmed the heartbreaking news in an official statement, expressing deep sadness at the loss and offering condolences to those affected. A club spokesperson said everyone at Rangers was “extremely saddened” to learn of the supporter’s passing and confirmed that the club is in contact with both Portuguese and British authorities as they assist the individual’s family and friends during an incredibly difficult time. The news has been met with an outpouring of grief from supporters, with tributes flooding social media throughout the day. Many described the fan as a kind, gentle character who lived and breathed the club, highlighting the strong sense of community that exists among Rangers supporters at home and abroad. One tribute, shared by Senga O’Connor, captured the emotion felt by many, describing the supporter as “a lovely gentle man, who loved his team” and expressing sadness that he would not get the chance to see Rangers lift another trophy. Messages of remembrance and solidarity have continued to pour in, reflecting the deep bonds formed through shared support of the club. Rangers fans had travelled in large numbers to Portugal ahead of the Europa League clash with FC Porto, the final match of the club’s European campaign this season. While anticipation had been building ahead of the fixture, the tragedy has understandably shifted the focus toward remembrance and respect. On the pitch, Rangers have already been eliminated from the league phase of the UEFA Europa League, despite securing their first win of the campaign against Ludogorets last week. The match in Porto was set to be an opportunity to finish the European journey with pride, but events off the field have overshadowed footballing matters. As supporters gather in Porto, many will do so with heavy hearts, united in grief and remembrance, honouring a fellow fan whose passion for Rangers will not be forgotten.
Aberdeen FC have completed the signing of Nigerian international Afeez Aremu on a permanent transfer from German side 1. FC Kaiserslautern. The 26-year-old defensive midfielder has agreed a deal that will keep him at Pittodrie until 2028, subject to visa formalities and international clearance. Aremu becomes the Dons’ fifth signing of the January transfer window, following the arrivals of Lyall Cameron, Liam Morrison, Toyosi Olusanya and Per Kristian Bråtveit, as the club continues to strengthen its squad for the second half of the season. Known for his physical presence and defensive strength, Aremu was a player Aberdeen Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel was eager to secure this month. “Afeez is going to bring a real physical edge to the squad, something which I think we have been looking for,” said Pfannenstiel. “He’s strong, robust and comes with good experience in a competitive environment in Germany. He is also tactically aware, so combined with all his athletic attributes, we believe he can adapt well to the intensity of the Scottish game and make a real impact.” After arriving in the Granite City to complete his move, Aremu expressed his excitement at starting a new chapter in Scotland. “I’m excited to be here. I’ve been made to feel really welcome, and I can’t wait to get started,” he said. “I like new challenges, and I think Aberdeen offers that. For me, I am growing and taking the next step in my career, so it’s a huge move. “I’m an aggressive player, but I have other attributes to my game. There is a lot to play for this season and a chance to move forward. I want to strengthen the team and help them achieve good things. “I’m ready to give everything every time I put the shirt on, and I’m really looking forward to playing in front of the fans.” Aremu’s arrival adds further steel and depth to Aberdeen’s midfield as the Dons push on during the remainder of the campaign.