MATCH REPORT | Monaco beat Benfica in Youth League | OneFootball

Lucas Michal’s goal proved the difference in AS Monaco’s UEFA Youth League encounter with Benfica (1-0). It is a result that bolsters the Principality club’s hopes of qualifying for the next round of the competition.

Djimi Traoré, manager of Monaco’s academy side, said that the game against Benfica, held in La Turbie, was one of two finals as his side looked to ensure qualification. Les Monégasques received a huge boost with Gustavo Varela seeing red for a challenge just 18 minutes into the tie.

Monaco therefore largely dominated possession, however, they struggled to create many chances of note with Benfica, down to 10 men, forced to sit deep. Ilane Touré and Bradel Kiwa both had good headed chances, however, both fluffed their lines unmarked.

Key game against Arsenal awaits Monaco

Monaco would go into half-time with a lead thanks to Lucas Michal’s deflected effort. Chances were even harder to come by in the second half and it was the visitors that looked more dangerous towards the end of the encounter, although they failed to ever work Jules Stawiecki into a save.

Monaco therefore took the three points, ensuring their first win since their Youth League opener against Barcelona. It leaves Les Monégasques in 17th place as they go in search of a place in the top 16 with just one game, away to Arsenal, remaining.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle – reporting from Monaco