Monaco’s remarkable unbeaten run faces its next test as they prepare to host Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade in a crucial UEFA Champions League encounter at the Stade Louis II on Tuesday. The French side’s impressive start to the season has raised expectations among their supporters, who are beginning to dream of another deep European run.
Monaco’s Stellar Form
The principality club has emerged as one of European football’s surprise packages this season, maintaining an unbeaten record across all competitions. Despite a goalless draw against Lille in their recent Ligue 1 fixture, where they showed remarkable resilience after Jordan Teze’s red card, Monaco continues to challenge Paris Saint-Germain at the summit of French football.
Their Champions League campaign has been equally impressive, starting with a statement victory over Barcelona and following up with a spirited comeback to draw 2-2 against Dinamo Zagreb, where Denis Zakaria’s late penalty preserved their unbeaten status. A victory against Red Star would mark Monaco’s best Champions League start since their memorable 2016-17 semifinal run.
Historical Significance
The matchup carries particular weight for Monaco, who have positive recent history against their Serbian opponents. Just two seasons ago, they completed a convincing double over Red Star, securing a 4-1 victory at home and a 1-0 win in Belgrade. This historical advantage adds another layer of confidence to their preparations.
Team News and Tactics
Monaco manager Adi Hutter faces some selection challenges, with key players Mohammed Salisu and Folarin Balogun sidelined through injuries. Salisu suffered a muscle problem during international duty with Ghana, while Balogun’s dislocated shoulder will keep him out for approximately two months.
Expected Monaco XI (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Kohn
- Defense: Vanderson, Singo, Kehrer, Caio Henrique
- Midfield: Zakaria, Camara
- Attack: Akliouche, Minamino, Ben Seghir
- Striker: Embolo
Red Star’s European Struggles
The Serbian champions arrive in Monaco facing their own set of challenges. Despite their domestic dominance, Red Star’s European record makes for concerning reading. They’re currently on a 12-match winless streak in the Champions League, with 11 defeats. Their away form is particularly troubling, having lost their last 11 road games while conceding 37 goals and scoring just six.
Red Star manager Vladan Milojevic will likely field a strong lineup, boosted by Luka Ilic’s recent hat-trick in their 5-1 domestic victory over Radnicki Nis. However, they’ll miss the services of Mirko Ivanic and Ognjen Mimovic through injuries.
Expected Red Star XI (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Glazer
- Defense: Seol, Spajic, Drkusic, Djiga
- Midfield: Krunic, Elsnik, L. Ilic
- Attack: Silas, Ndiaye, Olayinka
Key Battle Areas
The match is likely to be decided in several crucial areas:
- Monaco’s high-pressing game against Red Star’s build-up play
- The battle for midfield control between Zakaria and Red Star’s Krunic
- Red Star’s defensive organization against Monaco’s fluid attack
Historical Context
Red Star’s European pedigree cannot be overlooked, despite their recent struggles. As champions of Europe in 1991, they carry a rich history in continental competition. However, they’ve yet to progress past the group stage since that triumph, and their record in France (eight visits without a win) suggests an uphill battle awaits.
Match Details
- Competition: UEFA Champions League
- Venue: Stade Louis II, Monaco
- Date: Tuesday
- Kickoff: TBD
Expert Analysis
“Monaco’s unbeaten run has been built on solid defensive foundations and clinical attacking play,” notes European football analyst Pierre Dubois. “While Red Star’s domestic form is impressive, the step up to Champions League football has often proved too steep. Monaco’s organization and home advantage make them clear favorites.”
Prediction
Given Monaco’s impressive form, home advantage, and Red Star’s historical struggles in France, the hosts should secure a victory. However, Red Star’s recent attacking prowess suggests they could find the net in what promises to be an entertaining encounter.
Predicted Score: Monaco 3-1 Red Star Belgrade