Monaco continued their impressive form after the international break, securing a 2-1 victory over southern rivals Marseille in Ligue 1. The win was their seventh consecutive league triumph, extending their unbeaten run to 10 matches. U.S. men's national team striker Folarin Balogun was the star of the show, scoring a brilliant goal that further solidified Monaco's push for a Champions League spot. The victory moved Monaco level on points with fourth-placed Marseille, just one point behind third-placed Lille.
Balogun's Brilliant Finish Extends Scoring Run
Folarin Balogun has been in fantastic form recently, and he added to his tally with a superb finish in the 74th minute. The play began with goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky's clearance, which was swiftly turned into a counterattack. Balogun dribbled into the box, evaded defenders, and then chipped a delicate lob into the far corner of the net, putting Monaco 2-0 ahead. This goal marked his eighth in the last eight games across all competitions, further boosting his reputation as one of the league's top forwards.
Monaco Maintains Strong Momentum
Aleksandr Golovin gave Monaco the lead earlier in the match, scoring in the 58th minute. Although Marseille mounted a late charge, with Amine Gouiri pulling one back in the 85th minute, Monaco held firm. Despite Marseille’s aggressive push for an equalizer, goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky made a crucial reflex save to deny Facundo Medina, and Jordan Teze cleared a shot from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang off the line. Monaco’s defense remained resilient, ensuring the three points were secured.
Marseille’s Struggles Without Greenwood
Marseille, missing the suspended Mason Greenwood, struggled to break down Monaco’s defense. Despite pushing hard in the final stages, they were unable to find an equalizer. The loss leaves them level on points with Monaco but unable to close the gap with third-placed Lille, who remain one point ahead.
