AS Monaco marked its long-awaited return to winning form by securing a 2-0 victory over Angers, propelling them to third place in the league standings. This victory, which occurred on March 15, 2025, at the Stade Raymond Kopa, was particularly significant as it ended Monaco’s lengthy winless streak on the road, with their last away triumph coming fifteen matches prior.
Takumi Minamino, the Japanese international, played a pivotal role by starting for Monaco and exhibiting skillful performance throughout the match. The contest saw Monaco aiming to bounce back after struggling with just two wins from their previous seven matches, which had left them yearning for consistency and points.
The match commenced with Monaco immediately taking control, leading to chances for scoring early on. Just seven minutes in, Minamino had what seemed to be a perfect opportunity to net the first goal when he broke away from his marker and unleashed a left-footed shot. Unfortunately for him and Monaco, the shot did not find the target and instead clipped the goalpost.
With Monaco commanding the play, they closed the first half with eight shots, overwhelming Angers without allowing them any attempts on goal. Despite the lack of goals, Monaco seemed poised to secure victory with their dominant display. The momentum continued as Minamino once again threatened Angers’ goal twelve minutes after the interval. His efforts were commendable as he maneuvered through Angers' defense; yet, once more, his shot was thwarted by the defenders.
The turning point came when Monaco finally broke the deadlock at the 75-minute mark with Myron Boadu finding the net, courtesy of orchestrated passing culminating from across the pitch. The goal invigorated the Monaco squad and set them up for the additional security they needed.
Following the first goal, Maghnes Akliouche secured the win through a penalty kick at the 88th minute, wrapping up the scoreline at 2-0. This victory showcases the resurgence of AS Monaco as they look to establish their standing within the top tier of Ligue 1.
With this win, Monaco improved its record to 13 wins, 5 draws, and 7 losses after 25 matches played, firmly placing them at 4th position provisionally with 44 points. The presence of Minamino on the field for the entire match exhibited his importance to the team’s aspirations moving forward.
Analyzing the next fixtures, Angers, currently situated near the relegation zone, will encounter Rennes at home on March 30, 2025, aiming to claw their way up the league ladder. Conversely, Monaco is set to host Nice on March 29, 2025.