Monaco vs Metz
Ligue 1
Sunday
22nd October 2023
Stade Louis II
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Ligue 1 gameweek 9 fixture between Monaco and Metz.
Monaco vs Metz: Preview
Monaco form analysis
AS Monaco’s recent Ligue 1 matches demonstrate a team with an impressive attack but susceptible defensively at times. They started this run by comfortably beating Lens 3-0 at home thanks to goals from Singo, Golovin and Maripán. Monaco then twice surrendered the lead in a 2-2 away draw at Lorient after going ahead through Golovin and Balogun. A hard-fought 1-0 away win over rivals Nice followed courtesy of Boga’s late winner. However, defensive issues resurfaced in a thrilling 2-3 home loss to Marseille despite Akliouche’s brace. Most recently, Monaco won comfortably 1-3 away at Reims as the attack clicked again, with Jakobs, Balogun and Ben Yedder all scoring.
Overall, Monaco have shown they can be formidable going forward with the likes of Ben Yedder, Golovin and new signing Embolo impressing. But they remain prone to defensive lapses, conceding at least twice in 3 of these 5 games. IMonaco’s attacking talent could make them dark horses for Champions League qualification this season. However, improving defensive concentration is vital to sustain a top four push.
Metz form analysis
Metz have struggled for form and positive results since gaining promotion back to Ligue 1 this season. They started reasonably well by twice coming from behind to draw 2-2 at home with Reims thanks to goals from Jallow and Teuma. However a 0-1 home loss to title contenders Lens followed as defensive issues surfaced. Another home defeat came next, losing 0-1 to Strasbourg after conceding late on. Things deteriorated as Metz were soundly beaten 0-3 at home by Toulouse, who dominated throughout. Most recently, Metz narrowly lost 0-1 at home to Nice, beaten by Boudaoui’s early strike.
Overall Metz have found the step up to Ligue 1 challenging, conceding at least once in every game during this spell. Scoring goals has also been an issue, finding the net just twice in their last five matches. If coach Laszlo Boloni cannot tighten them up defensively and get strikers firing, it could be a long season for Metz. There have been some spirited displays but Metz have been consistently punished for defensive errors. Vast improvements will be needed to avoid relegation straight back to Ligue 2.
