Rouen vs Monaco
Coupe de France
Thursday
8th February 2024
Stade Robert-Diochon
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Coupe de France fixture between Rouen and Monaco.
Rouen vs Monaco: Preview
Rouen form analysis
Les Diables Rouges had put together a positive run of form over the past month, going undefeated in three games prior to a 2-0 loss away at Nîmes followed by a disappointing 2-1 home loss against Versailles last time out. It began with an impressive 5-1 thrashing of Cholet at home, racing into a 3-0 first half lead before wrapping up the win late on. What followed was an excellent 2-1 victory away at Niort, coming from behind as Ibayi and then Loppy struck to claim the three points. Sandwiched between was a 1-0 home win over Marignane courtesy of a fortunate own goal.
However, manager Arnaud Margueritte was left bitterly disappointed after the loss to Versailles despite Loppy’s penalty cancelling out Baaloudj’s opener. Defensive issues cost Rouen all game and they were made to pay late on. So while retaining attacking flair with the likes of Ibayi and Loppy impressing, Margueritte will be concerned with individual errors presenting opportunities to opponents. Cutting these out and tightening up concentration at the back is vital now if they are to make a push for promotion.
Monaco form analysis
Monaco have experienced mixed form recently, struggling for consistency across their last five league matches. They started this run with an important 1-0 home win over Lyon courtesy of a superb late Jeffinho strike. What followed was an excellent come from behind 2-1 away victory at Toulouse – two Ben Yedder goals in 18 minutes completing the turnaround after falling behind early.
Sandwiched in between was a thrilling 2-2 draw away at second place Marseille, twice pegged back after Ben Yedder and then Akliouche strikes had put Monaco ahead. Most recently however, Monaco lacked attacking spark in the disappointing draw with Le Havre. Despite Ben Yedder putting them ahead, defensive errors cost manager Adi Hütter’s men as they were pegged back quickly. If Hütter can eradicate individual mistakes and lapses in concentration at the back, they have more than enough firepower upfront to compete at the top.
Rouen vs Monaco: Prediction
The average goals in this venue in the last five league fixtures is just two. Monaco on the other hand have scored more than twice just once since October 2023. It might prove to be a wise decision backing a low scoring fixture at the Stade Robert-Diochon.
