Match Reports
Monaco, Strasbourg’s Champions League Hopes Take Hit in Scoreless Draw
In the first half, Monaco recorded four total shots while Strasbourg registered zero and the best scoring chance that the home side had would be called back after a VAR review.
Right before halftime, Mika Biereth had scored to give Adi Hütter and his team a one-goal lead, but VAR ruled the goal out after confirming Caio Henrique was offside.
Both sides improved their shot totals in the second half with Monaco firing off eight and RCSA recording five as they looked to break the scoreless deadlock.
Strasbourg had the best scoring chance in the final 45 minutes as they thought they had taken a one-goal lead, but again, VAR played a role. After weathering the pressure, Sam Amo-Ameyaw broke through and whipped in a cross that Emanuel Emegha headed home — but VAR stepped in and ruled it out for offside.
Following the match, Diego Moreira spoke to DAZN and shared his thoughts on the disappointing draw for Strasbourg.
"After the draw against OGC Nice, we wanted to bounce back. Unfortunately, we ended up with another draw, but it's still a good point earned. It's a bit frustrating, there were chances on both sides."
"We’ll take the point, and there are four matches left. It's a strong team, they're second in the standings. We're also fighting for Europe, so it's a bit frustrating. We need to bounce back next week against AS Saint-Étienne."
The scoreless deadlock saw both teams leave the match having dropped points as the two sides shared the spoils. Strasbourg's (51 points) draw means they cannot leap over Olympique Lyonnais (51 points) while LOSC Lille (50 points) have an opportunity to move past Liam Rosenior and his team with a win on Sunday.
Monaco have to worry about Olympique de Marseille, as a win over Montpellier will see Roberto De Zerbi and his team move back into second place. Should OL secure a win on Sunday, Lyon could level with Monaco on points.
The Stat: 51
While the draw against Monaco wasn't ideal for Strasbourg's Champions League hopes, the one point is a significant milestone for Strasbourg. With 51 points after 30 Ligue 1 matches this season, it's their highest total at this stage since the 1978-79 campaign, when adjusted to three points for a win (61 points—finished first that Ligue 1 McDonald's season).
READ MORE:
