Football: Brunner stars again to send Monaco top of Ligue 1

AS Monaco moved to the top of the Ligue 1 table following a 2-1 victory over Lens at the Stade Louis II on Friday. Paris Brunner scored for the hosts, continuing his strong start to the season, while a late own goal from Jonathan Gradit secured the win for the Principality club.

Monaco manager Filipe Luis, who remains unbeaten since his summer appointment, described the match as a victory earned through suffering. Despite Monaco dominating the first half, the team faced significant pressure from Lens in the second period. Lens, led by interim manager Yannick Cahuzac following the departure of Dino Toppmoller earlier in the week, managed to equalize through a Matthieu Udol header from a corner kick.

The opening goal came after a long ball from Vanderson allowed Abline to outpace the Lens defense. Abline set up Brunner, who finished first-time past goalkeeper Robin Risser. Monaco had two other goals disallowed for offside during the first half, and Risser made several saves to keep the scoreline close.

In the final stages of the match, a cross from Vanderson led to the decisive moment when Lens defender Jonathan Gradit inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while contesting the cross with Brunner. Monaco goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky made several key saves in the second half to preserve the lead, including an effort from Thorgan Hazard.

Following the result, Filipe Luis emphasized that the season remains in its early stages. Monaco plans to arrange a friendly match during the upcoming international break to maintain momentum and provide playing time for returning players, including Folarin Balogun, Takumi Minamino, and Mohammed Salisu, who are recovering from injuries. Brunner, meanwhile, has received his first call-up to the Germany U21 squad.

Article and image source: monacolife.net