MONICH – RED STAR | Thursday 6:45pm
A single point separates Monaco and Red Star in the standings when there are only ninety minutes left in the Europa League group: it is seven for the French side, one less for the Serbian side, who will obviously play everything to try and go ahead. Monaco, however, are obliged to win in order to stay calm, because in the other challenge of the grouping, Trabzonspor play against Ferencvaros, who have already qualified. In short, everything remains at stake, although the hosts are obviously favourites.
Not only because of the standings or even the first leg result (Monaco winning one-nil on the road), but also and above all because of the teams that will take the field. There can be no doubt that the Principality’s squad is clearly superior to the host team, with Clement having valuable people in his squad, who in no way can afford the luxury of coming out of this event in a round that is as affordable and largely within reach. Yes, Monaco’s momentum is not the best, as in their last five matches only one victory has come between league and cup. But this one came last weekend against Angers, which gave them the chance to prepare for this important match of the season with some peace of mind. Red Star, who have won five games in a row anyway, should thus break this streak of such important results.
Nubel, goalkeeper of the French
The Prediction
Fundamental for Monaco going forward. The French team has what it takes to take victory and qualification. And they should do so without any particular problems, despite the somewhat so-so moment that accompanied the Principality’s troop in October.
The likely line-up for Monaco v Red Star
- MONACO (3-4-1-2): Nubel; Disasi, Maripan, Sarr; Akliouche, Fofana, Matazo, Jakobs; Minamino; Embolo, Ben Yedder.
- RED STAR (4-2-3-1): Borjan; Gobeljic, Dragovic, Erakovic, Rodic; Kangwa, Mijalovic; El Fardou, Ivanic, Mijatovic; Pesic.
POSSIBLE RESULT: 2-0
