Pedro Martinez Losa fails Scotland again after euro 2025 defeat

In Scotland, Pedro Martinez Losa has stepped down as the head coach of the women's national football team following the team's inability to qualify for Euro 2025. This decision comes after a disappointing playoff defeat against Finland, where Scotland lost 2-0 in the second leg of the playoffs earlier this month, having played to a goalless draw in the first leg at Easter Road. Losa had been at the helm since July 2021 and had previously failed to secure a spot for the 2023 World Cup through playoffs as well. Ian Maxwell, the chief executive of the Scottish FA, announced the decision, expressing gratitude for Losa's efforts and highlighting the importance of qualifying for major tournaments as a primary objective, despite recognizing the team's recent unbeaten performance in the Nations League. Losa expressed pride in his time as head coach, emphasizing the journey that he and the team had undergone together. He particularly noted the development of young talent within the squad and the support from both his backroom staff and passionate supporters. Losa's departure marks the end of a challenging era for the Scotland women’s team, which last celebrated qualification for a major tournament during the 2019 World Cup in France under the management of Shelley Kerr. The Scottish FA is set to initiate a recruitment process for a new head coach to lead the team, starting preparations for upcoming Nations League fixtures in February. The resignation follows significant stress on the team to perform after failing in two successive qualifying attempts. The Scottish women’s team has shown potential, managing to achieve an unbeaten streak recently, but the pressure to qualify for major competitions remains high. Losa’s resigning reflects the challenging dynamics and high expectations in women's football, where coaches face intense scrutiny over performance, especially in a competitive landscape where nations are rapidly developing their teams. Looking to the future, the Scottish FA aims to rebuild the team and enhance its competitiveness on the international stage. Finding a new head coach who can capitalize on the existing talents and foster a winning mentality will be crucial as Scotland seeks to qualify for Euro 2025 and beyond. The leadership will need to inspire the players and create a strategic pathway to improve the national team's standing in European women's football.