AS Monaco’s journey in the Coupe de France ended in heartbreak as they were eliminated by Stade de Reims in the round of 16 following a dramatic penalty shootout (1-1, 4-1 on penalties) on the evening of Tuesday, January 14. Despite a spirited second-half comeback to level the score, the Red and Whites faltered in the decisive shootout, leaving their dreams of cup glory dashed.

Monaco entered the match seeking to build on their success in the previous round against L’Union Saint-Jean, but they faced a stern test against Reims, who had held them to a goalless draw in Ligue 1 earlier this season. Manager Adi Hütter rotated his squad, including a first professional start for Lucas Michal, and introduced a new defensive pairing of Wilfried Singo and Mohammed Salisu.

The match began with promise for Monaco as Breel Embolo and Eliesse Ben Seghir created early chances. However, the breakthrough came for Reims just before halftime when Cédric Kipré powered in a header from a well-delivered set piece, leaving Monaco trailing at the break.

Hütter made adjustments at halftime, bringing on Jordan Teze and Mika Biereth to add fresh energy. The changes paid off in the 70th minute when Salisu rose to meet a precise cross and headed in the equaliser, his second goal in as many matches. Monaco pressed for a winner, with Embolo coming close twice and Mika Biereth testing Reims’ defence, but neither side could find a decisive goal in regular time.

In the penalty shootout, Monaco faltered, missing three of their four attempts, while Reims held their nerve to secure a 4-1 victory. The defeat marks a bitter end to Monaco’s Coupe de France campaign, and the team will need to regroup quickly as they return to Ligue 1 action against Montpellier on the evening of Friday, January 17.

This early exit is a tough blow for Monaco, but their focus will now shift to maintaining their strong league form as they seek redemption in domestic competition.