AS Monaco booked their place in the Champions League playoffs after a disciplined and controlled goalless draw against Juventus on the evening of Wednesday, January 28 at the Stade Louis‑II.
The result was enough for AS Monaco to secure qualification, capping off a solid European campaign in front of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II and club president Dmitry Rybolovlev.
Facing a Juventus side in strong form and historically difficult opponents, Monaco entered the final group-stage fixture knowing a point would be sufficient. Despite a long injury list, the Red and Whites delivered a composed performance built on defensive stability and intelligent game management.
Head coach Sébastien Pocognoli reshuffled his back line, deploying Jordan Teze centrally alongside captain Denis Zakaria, while Lamine Camara returned to midfield to add balance and physicality.
Monaco set the tone early. A loose clearance from Juve goalkeeper Mattia Perin nearly gifted Maghnes Akliouche an opener inside the first minute, before Folarin Balogun saw a goal ruled out for a foul shortly afterwards. The hosts controlled much of the first half, with Vanderson, Teze and Balogun all testing Perin, while Juventus struggled to create clear chances.
The visitors attempted to change the dynamic after the break, introducing fresh attacking options, but Monaco remained the more threatening side. Caio Henrique forced another save, and Camara came close with a dipping free kick that skimmed the crossbar as the game settled into a tense tactical battle.
Juventus pushed late on, but Monaco’s defensive organisation held firm. A stoppage-time effort from the visitors drifted wide, sealing a result that suited the home side.
At the final whistle, Monaco could celebrate a hard-earned draw and a return to the Champions League playoffs for the second consecutive season — a reward for their resilience and maturity on the European stage.
