AS Monaco returned from the international break in style, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over Auxerre. The result sees the Principality side climb to second place in Ligue 1 with 10 points, setting the stage perfectly for their upcoming showdown with Barcelona on Thursday, September 19.
After a two-week hiatus, Monaco wasted no time asserting their dominance at the Abbé-Deschamps stadium. Thilo Kehrer opened the scoring in the 8th minute with a powerful header off a well-placed corner from Lamine Camara. It marked the Senegalese midfielder’s first assist in Ligue 1 and Kehrer’s second goal for the club.
Monaco continued to press, with Breel Embolo coming close to doubling the lead before Vanderson made it 2-0 in the 25th minute. The Brazilian calmly slotted home after a precise assist from captain Denis Zakaria. Despite a flurry of chances before halftime, including a missed opportunity from Eliesse Ben Seghir, Monaco couldn’t extend their lead further.
The second half saw more Monaco pressure, with Aleksandr Golovin and Embolo both testing Auxerre goalkeeper Donovan Léon. Coach Adi Hütter introduced fresh legs in the 64th minute, bringing on Takumi Minamino, George Ilenikhena, and Folarin Balogun. The substitutes made an immediate impact, with Balogun nearly adding a third, but Léon denied him.
Zakaria eventually sealed the victory in the 89th minute, pouncing on a rebound from a Kehrer header to score his second consecutive goal. The 3-0 win marks a strong return to action for Monaco, who remain undefeated in the league.
With this resounding victory, Monaco not only secures a spot on the podium but also heads into their highly anticipated clash against Barcelona in top form.
