The Roca Team experienced its first EuroLeague defeat of the season on Wednesday, October 16, falling 86-71 to FC Barcelona in what proved to be a challenging road game. After two strong home victories against Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Milan, this matchup marked Monaco’s first major test of the competition, and they struggled to keep pace with the Catalan side.
Despite an encouraging start, Monaco faltered in the second half, with Barcelona capitalising on turnovers and dominating across all sectors. Kevin Punter led Barça with 21 points, supported by Jabari Parker (16 points, 5 rebounds) and Jan Vesely (10 points, 6 rebounds). A critical moment came at the end of the first half when Barcelona went on a 6-0 run following two Monaco turnovers, giving them a 47-39 lead and setting the tone for the rest of the game.
Without key players Nick Calathes and Furkan Korkmaz due to injuries, Monaco’s offence struggled, with Mike James (11 points) and Jordan Loyd (four points) unable to find their rhythm. Additionally, Monaco was outplayed on the boards, giving up 14 offensive rebounds that allowed Barcelona to extend their lead. A three-pointer from Punter late in the game sealed Monaco’s fate, leaving them trailing by 17 points at the end of the third quarter.
Alpha Diallo (12 points) and Élie Okobo (13 points, seven assists) provided some resistance, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit. The defeat leaves the Principality side now looking to bounce back as they prepare for future EuroLeague challenges. Monaco’s next game will be at home against Virtus Bologna, the only team to have lost all of its matches.