Monaco secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against a resilient 10-man Auxerre side in Ligue 1 action on Saturday, thanks to a late, stunning header from 19-year-old George Ilenikhena. The win, Monaco's third of the season, moved them up the league table, level on points with Paris Saint-Germain and Lyon.
The match, played in driving rain at the Stade de l'Abbé-Deschamps, proved to be a tough encounter for both sides. Auxerre started brightly, creating a few early chances. Danny Namaso fired a low drive just wide, and Lassine Sinayoko rounded the goalkeeper but couldn't capitalize due to a heavy touch. Monaco responded with Folarin Balogun, who shot into the side netting. Sekou Mara's powerful shot was tipped over the bar by the Monaco goalkeeper, and Josue Casimir missed another opportunity, failing to convert his strike.
Monaco took the lead in the second minute of added time in the first half when Takumi Minamino slotted home a loose ball from close range. The goal came at an opportune moment for Monaco, giving them the advantage heading into the break.
Auxerre's task became even more challenging when Josue Casimir was sent off in the 68th minute after receiving a second yellow card for a foul. Despite being down to 10 men, Auxerre found an equalizer in the 73rd minute through a Mohammed Salisu own goal. Kevin Danois delivered a dangerous cross that Salisu inadvertently turned into his own net.
Monaco thought they had a chance to regain the lead when they were awarded a penalty after Denis Zakaria went down in the box. However, the decision was overturned after a VAR review. In the closing stages, Monaco's Thilo Kehrer saw his header hit the crossbar.
The decisive moment arrived in the 89th minute when Ilenikhena, who had come on as a substitute, rose to meet a precise cross from Vanderson and headed the ball just under the bar, securing the victory for Monaco.
Monaco manager Adi Hütter will be pleased with his team's resilience and ability to secure the three points. The victory provides a positive momentum as they prepare for their Champions League match against Club Brugge.
