Monaco returned to form just ahead of their Champions League clash with Arsenal, securing a 2-0 victory against Toulouse on Saturday. This win allows them to close in on the top of Ligue 1, now sitting just five points behind the league leaders.
The victory came as a relief for Monaco, who had suffered losses in their previous two matches across all competitions. Wilfried Singo and Breel Embolo were the ones to find the net, marking the club’s ninth victory from 14 league games this season. They currently hold a three-point advantage over third-placed Marseille, who are set to face Saint-Etienne on Sunday.
Monaco’s coach, Adi Hütter, maintained his tactical approach but made some alterations to the lineup, featuring 18-year-old forward George Ilenikhana leading the attack, supported by Maghnes Akliouche, Takumi Minamino, and Aleksandr Golovin. Additionally, Hütter had to adjust his strategy at the last moment due to captain Denis Zakaria being sidelined with thigh pain, which granted midfielder Eliot Matazo his first start of the season.
Throughout the first half, Monaco controlled most of the ball and created the most promising opportunities. Ilenikhana was particularly impressive, coming close with a shot that hit the right post and another that ricocheted off the crossbar.
Toulouse found themselves in 10th position, trailing behind the leaders by 16 points, as they struggled to find their footing in the match.
Monaco played without U.S. international Folarin Balogun, who recently aggravated a dislocated shoulder injury. His availability for the upcoming match against Arsenal remains uncertain.