Ligue 1: Ansu Fati's Brace Leads Monaco to 5-2 Win Over Metz
Monaco dominated Metz in a 5-2 victory. Ansu Fati came off the bench to score a decisive brace, leading AS Monaco with a thrilling win over struggling Metz in Ligue 1.
Substitute George Ilenikhena added a fine fifth goal for Monaco in injury time, capping off...
Ansu Fati stole the show with a stunning brace off the bench, guiding AS Monaco to a resounding 5-2 victory over struggling Metz. Fati's impressive performance helped Monaco maintain their unbeaten streak at home, with 10 wins and 1 draw in their last 11 matches.
The 22-year-old forward came off the bench at halftime and wasted no time making his presence felt. Just 36 seconds after entering the pitch, Fati latched onto a low ball into the penalty area and slotted home with a neat touch, putting Monaco 2-1 up. He scored again in the 83rd minute, heading in a cross from Krépin Diatta to seal a 3-2 lead for Monaco.
Cheikh Sabaly's precise pass split the defense, creating a scoring opportunity for Habib Diallo, who capitalized on the chance. Diallo, who had scored a brace in Metz's last win in this fixture in August 2019, beat Philipp Kohn to give the visitors a surprise lead.
Ansu Fati gives Monaco the victory! ✅ pic.twitter.com/bmSFRTTMEq
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) September 21, 2025
Metz nearly doubled their lead just seven minutes later when Koffi Kouao's shot seemed destined for the top corner. However, Kohn made an incredible save to deny Metz a second goal, showcasing his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping ability.
Monaco's fortunes changed dramatically when they equalized with their first shot on target, just before the half-hour mark. Mika Biereth, expertly positioned, received Takumi Minamino's brilliant cross into the box and calmly converted the chance, leaving Metz goalkeeper Jonathan Fischer with no chance. This goal leveled the score, heading into halftime.
Ansu Fati’s instant impact for AS Monaco! 👏💎 pic.twitter.com/ZNSaoh2Dfh
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) September 21, 2025
The scoreline didn't stay level for long. Immediately after the restart, Monaco took control of the game, ruthlessly turning the match in their favor. This marked a significant shift in momentum, ultimately leading to their 5-2 victory over Metz. Ansu Fati's brace off the bench played a crucial role in Monaco's win, showcasing their depth and talent.
Replacing Paris Brunner at the break, Fati made an immediate impact by expertly slotting home Lamine Camara’s pass from deep inside the area.
That lead was close to being extended further in the 56th minute, but Fischer produced a sublime reaction save to keep out Maghnes Akliouche’s effort.
Despite dominating the opening quarter-hour of the second half, Monaco were pegged back by Metz in the 67th minute from the penalty spot.
Minamino's unnecessary foul on Kouao gave Metz a chance to gain momentum. Captain Gauthier Hein took responsibility, confidently scoring from 12 yards to give his team hope for an upset.
Ansu Fati, looking to prove himself after an unsuccessful loan spell at Brighton & Hove Albion, made a significant impact. He headed home in the 83rd minute from Krepin Diatta's delivery, sealing Monaco's 3-2 lead and showcasing his quality.
Metz's disappointing trip took a turn for the worse when Kouao inadvertently headed Lamine Camara's corner past Fischer, securing a crucial advantage for Monaco. This own goal sealed the win for Monaco, showcasing their determination to claim victory.
Substitute George Ilenikhena added a fine fifth goal for Monaco in injury time, capping off a third successive win in Ligue 1. This victory lifted Adi Hutter's side up three places to second position in the table, somewhat redeeming themselves after a heavy midweek UEFA Champions League defeat to Club Brugge.
Meanwhile, Metz remains rooted to the foot of the standings without a win, having recorded only one draw and four losses since being promoted back to the top flight this season. Their recent match history shows losses to Strasbourg and Paris, with a draw against Auxerre, highlighting their struggles in the league.
Match Outcome
Metz had a promising start, breaking the deadlock in just 13 minutes. However, they couldn't sustain their momentum, and Monaco's George Ilenikhena sealed the win with a stoppage-time goal. This win propels Monaco to the top of the Ligue 1 standings, showcasing their impressive form this season.
No comments:
Leave comment here