Monaco surged to a three‑point lead in Ligue 1 after a 2‑1 triumph over Lens at Stade Louis II, preserving their unbeaten opening run.
Early on the hosts seemed to have broken the deadlock when Matthis Abline calmly slotted home, but the goal was chalked off for off‑side, much to Lens’ relief.
Both sides traded blows in the opening minutes, then VAR prompted the referee to examine a potential handball by Sadibou Sane in the box. After a careful check, Clement Turpin decided no penalty was due, letting the home fans breathe easy.
Monaco’s frustration grew as Edan Diop saw his close‑range effort ruled out for off‑side just before the half‑hour mark.
Pressure paid off when Paris Brunner latched onto Abline’s perfect pass, tucked the ball past Robin Risser and gave Les Rouge et Blanc a 1‑0 lead, marking his fourth league strike.
Filipe Luís’ men thought they’d double the lead before halftime, but Abline squandered a clear‑cut chance from a few yards after Brunner’s initial shot was palmed away by Risser.
The second half began brightly for the hosts, and Abline found the net, only for the assistant’s flag to signal off‑side, sparking disbelief.
Lens stunned the crowd in the 57th minute when Matthieu Udol headed Florian Thauvin’s corner past Lukas Hradecky, leveling the score.
Soon after, the visitors surged with confidence, and substitute Thorgan Hazard saw his header sail over the bar when it should have found the target.
Just when a draw seemed inevitable, Jonathan Gradit accidentally turned the ball into his own net in the 84th minute, restoring Monaco’s lead, which they defended to the final whistle.
Les Rouge et Blanc have now secured four wins in five opening matches for the third straight season. For my money, their early consistency signals genuine title ambitions.
Flashscore Man of the Match: Matthieu Udol (Lens)
Click here for more on the match. Will Monaco keep their momentum into the next round?