AS Monaco defeated AS Saint-Etienne 3-1 on Saturday, securing valuable points in the French Ligue 1 standings. The victory moves Monaco into second place in the league table.
The result puts pressure on Olympique de Marseille (OM) as Monaco now holds a better goal difference. Both teams are competing for a Champions League qualification spot.
For Saint-Etienne, the loss keeps them in a difficult position near the bottom of the table. The team remains in 17th place, just one point above the relegation playoff spot.
Monaco started the match quickly, scoring just two minutes into the game through Akliouche. The goal gave Monaco an early advantage.
Saint-Etienne responded in the second half. Zuriko Davitashvili found the back of the net in the 65th minute, leveling the score and energizing the home crowd.
However, Monaco quickly regained control. Al-Musrati scored for Monaco in the 68th minute, putting his team back in front.
Folarin Balogun sealed the result for Monaco with a goal in the 78th minute. The score remained 3-1 through the final whistle.
The match outcome highlights Monaco's push for a high finish in the league season. Saint-Etienne faces continued challenges in its effort to avoid relegation.
