The eagerly anticipated clash between AS Monaco and FC Barcelona at Stade Louis II marked the opening matchday of the TodayLeague phase. With both teams looking to start their campaigns on a high note, fans were treated to an intense, back-and-forth battle. Monaco, having been away from the competition for six years, showcased a display filled with energy and determination, while FC Barcelona fought hard, even after being reduced to 10 men following Eric García’s early dismissal. Monaco ultimately emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, leaving Barcelona with much to reflect on as they look forward to the rest of the competition.
Monaco vs FC Barcelona Head-to-Head
The historic meeting between Monaco and FC Barcelona has always been a contest of skill and tactics. With both teams possessing immense talent, the fixture promised to be a fiery one. Monaco, eager to make a mark, had to overcome Barcelona’s young and dynamic attacking line, with standout performances from both sides lighting up the game. In previous encounters, Barcelona often edged out the Ligue 1 side, but this time Monaco turned the tables with a stunning victory.
Monaco vs FC Barcelona Lineups
Here are the Monaco vs FC Barcelona lineups today (Sep 19, 2024)
Monaco Starting XI (4-2-3-1)
- GK: Philipp Köhn
- DF: Vanderson, Timo Kehrer, Zakaria, Salisu
- MF: Golovin, Caio Henrique, Takumi Minamino, Akliouche, Singo
- FW: Breel Embolo
Substitutes
- George Ilenikhena (for Embolo, 59’)
- Folarin Balogun (for Minamino, 69’)
- Eliesse Ben Seghir (for Caio Henrique, 69’)
- Christian Mawissa (for Vanderson, 88’)
Barcelona Starting XI (4-3-3)
- GK: Marc-André ter Stegen
- DF: Alejandro Balde, Eric García, Iñigo Martínez, Koundé
- MF: Pedri, Raphinha, Casado
- FW: Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres
Substitutes
- Pablo Torre (for Pedri, 83’)
- Sergi Dominguez (for Lewandowski, 80’)
- Gerard Martín (for Yamal, 80’)
- Pau Cubarsí (for Ferran Torres, 80’)
Monaco vs FC Barcelona First Half Summary
Monaco got off to a flying start, taking control of the game early on. In the 16th minute, Akliouche broke the deadlock with a close-range finish after a brilliant team move, giving Monaco a deserved 1-0 lead. However, Barcelona responded quickly through their teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, who equalized in the 28th minute with a well-placed shot from outside the box. The first half was not without drama as Barcelona’s Eric García was shown a red card in the 11th minute for a reckless challenge, leaving the visitors with a numerical disadvantage.
Monaco vs FC Barcelona Second Half Summary
Despite being down to 10 men, Barcelona fought valiantly in the second half. Monaco, however, capitalized on their advantage and continued to apply pressure. In the 71st minute, substitute George Ilenikhena, assisted by Vanderson, found the back of the net to restore Monaco’s lead. Barcelona tried to push for an equalizer, but Monaco’s defense held firm. The final whistle blew with Monaco claiming a crucial 2-1 victory in this tightly contested affair.
Monaco vs FC Barcelona Stats
| Monaco vs FC Barcelona Stats | Monaco | FC Barcelona |
| Possession (%) | 57 | 43 |
| Total Attempts | 18 | 4 |
| Attacks | 48 | 16 |
| Corners Taken | 10 | 0 |
| Passing Accuracy (%) | 86 | 82 |
| Passes Completed | 378 | 281 |
| Yellow Cards | 4 | 4 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 1 |
| Fouls Committed | 16 | 14 |
| Offsides | 6 | 2 |
Monaco vs FC Barcelona Timeline
- 11′: Eric García (Barcelona) sent off for a dangerous foul.
- 16′: Goal! Akliouche (Monaco) scores, putting Monaco ahead 1-0.
- 28′: Goal! Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) equalizes with a stunning effort from distance, 1-1.
- 71′: Goal! Ilenikhena (Monaco) restores Monaco’s lead after a brilliant assist from Vanderson, 2-1.
- 75′: Yellow card for Iñigo Martínez (Barcelona).
- 85′: Yellow card for Casado (Barcelona).
- 90′: Yellow card for Mawissa (Monaco).
- 90’+6′: Full-time whistle, Monaco wins 2-1.
Monaco vs FC Barcelona Player Achievements
- Lamine Yamal: Barcelona’s teenage prodigy impressed once again, scoring a beautiful goal and threatening Monaco’s defense with his speed and creativity.
- George Ilenikhena: The 18-year-old substitute made an instant impact, scoring the winning goal and solidifying Monaco’s triumph.
- Vanderson: Provided the assist for Ilenikhena’s decisive goal and was a constant threat on the right flank.
Monaco vs FC Barcelona Impact on Points Table
Monaco’s victory catapults them to an ideal start in the TodayLeague phase, while Barcelona will need to regroup quickly to avoid falling behind in their group. The result gives Monaco three points and confidence heading into the next matchday, while Barcelona remains without a point, sitting at the bottom of the table after matchday 1.
Monaco vs FC Barcelona Man of the Match George Ilenikhena
The young forward came off the bench to score the match-winner, showing remarkable composure in front of goal and playing a key role in Monaco’s success.
Monaco’s 2-1 victory over FC Barcelona at Stade Louis II was a thrilling affair that saw the hosts rise to the occasion. With Akliouche and Ilenikhena both finding the net, Monaco showed grit and resilience, particularly against a Barcelona side playing with 10 men for much of the match. Lamine Yamal’s equalizer briefly brought Barcelona back into the game, but Ilenikhena’s goal sealed the result. This match was a reminder of Monaco’s potential, while Barcelona will need to bounce back from this early setback. The TodayLeague phase has only just begun, but Monaco vs FC Barcelona will go down as a match full of excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments.
