AS Monaco managed to hold Real Sociedad to a draw in a tense Europa League matchup in Spain on Thursday, September 30.
Monaco head coach Niko Kovac opted for an unusual starting lineup featuring Myron Boadu as the sole striker up front, supported by Sofiane Diop and Krépin Diatta on either wing. On this occasion, Axel Disasi wore the captain’s armband.
It only took 16 minutes for the Monegasques to open the scoring, as captain Disasi headed a cross in on a foray up field, beating Alex Remiro between the host’s posts.
The remainder of the first half saw the hosts attempt to regain control of the lead, but to no avail as Alexander Nübel remained attentive in goal.
However, it wasn’t long into the second half that Real Sociedad managed to deal some damage. Adnan Januzaj found Mikel Merino with a clean corner, and the latter headed in the equaliser, bringing the scoreline to 1-1 at the 53rd minute.
The hosts appeared to be the most dangerous in the remaining minutes of the game, enjoying a larger share of possession and shots on goal than Monaco. At the end of a tight contest, the match concluded in a draw and the red and whites advance with one crucial point, placing them second in their Europa League group.
Monaco will have a chance to get back on top in their next European matchup, against Dutch side PSV Eindhoven on October 21, but first they must face off against Bordeaux in a Ligue 1 fixture on Sunday, October 3.
Featured image courtesy of @AS_Monaco on Twitter
