Monaco – Paris SG : Preview & Prediction
Monaco have got off to a great start in 2023 and are part of a group of clubs battling to be “best of the rest” behind current Ligue 1 leaders and next opponents Paris Saint-Germain. Despite going seven league games unbeaten (G5, E2), Monaco are still ten points behind the visiting side, so if they are to avoid their already slim chances of winning the league disappearing altogether, getting a good result here is essential.
Getting it is not out of the question either, as they won this match last season 3-0 and have only lost one of their last eight home games in Ligue 1 (G6, E1). Realistically, however, the objective is qualification for the UEFA Champions League, which they are aiming for despite not having signed in January for the first time since the 2004/05 season.
PSG will therefore be cautious ahead of this trip to the Principality, but will also be eager to avenge the defeat they suffered at this venue last season. Former Monaco star Kylian Mbappé is unavailable due to injury and a midweek defeat in the Coupe de France to one of their biggest rivals, Marseille (2-1), was another blow for Christophe Galtier’s side, although that result will allow them to concentrate on retaining their league title.
While PSG retain a healthy cushion at the top of the standings, two defeats in their last six league games (G3, E1) have shown that they are not invincible, especially as both losses came away from home against teams in the top five. These two sides have not drawn at this venue since March 2015, so a winner is likely. Entertainment is also a factor, as the last seven clashes at this venue between the two produced at least three goals (G4, P3).
Players to watch: Breel Embolo has scored three times after the 60th min. in Monaco’s last two home league games, and with Mbappé injured, Lionel Messi has taken center stage by scoring in similar fashion between the 55th and 75th minute in each of PSG’s last two league games.
Key stat: Monaco’s home games in the league this season have produced an average of four goals per game, which is the highest figure in Ligue 1.
Monaco – Paris SG : Betting Tips
Monaco – Win Odds: 2.35
