AS Monaco did not hold the shock in Arsenal (3-0) on Wednesday, a defeat filled with missed opportunities which relegates the Principality club among barragists after six days in the Champions League.
The score may seem severe for red and white, arrived decreased by injuries and suspensions, in London, and left with the regret of their multiple failed goal balls, especially in the second period.
In the League phase classification, Adi Hütter's team comes out of the top 8 which assured him, at the start, a virtual qualification in the round of 16.
Aston Villa and Inter on the menu
To find this precious ticket, it will be necessary to fight in January against Aston Villa and then Inter Milan, two of the best teams currently in the Grande Cup de Méanis.
Arsenal is part of this Gotha, certainly, and he still showed it on Wednesday with a new outstanding match, the third in three European matches played this season at home.
The Monegasques displayed beautiful entry intentions, but they could quickly drink the cup without high class stops signed Radoslaw Majecki, of the right leg (25e) then from the left hand (28e), each time in front of Gabriel Jesus.
Saka in all the right shots
The third opportunity was the right one for Arsenal.
The rear left Myles Lewis-Skelly (18), holder for the second time in his young career, was played by Akliouche Maghnes before sending a supported pass to Jesus. The Brazilian centered for Bukayo Saka (34e1-0), left too lonely at the second post.
Monegasque defense approximations almost cost dear, but Martin Odegaard (39e) Eter Gabriel Martinelli (42e) lacked the frame. This has re-inflated the morale of the red and white, returned drum beating after half-time.
Missed opportunities …
Thilo Kehrer was very close to equalizing the head on a free kick (47e), Takumi Minamino warmed up the gloves of David Raya (63e), and Breel Embolo almost cool the Emirates of a pivotal strike (65e).
For Monaco, the regrets come from these missed occasions. Because Arsenal, opposite, is not one to snub the crumbs that can be abandoned.
… and defensive errors
Kai Havertz emerged on a bad pass from Mohammed Salisu, holder in place of Wilfried Singo (suspended), and Pusé Majecki to release in disaster. Saka, in ambush, seized the offering (78e2-0).
The Monegasques drank the chalice to the lie when Havertz extended a shot from Saka (88e3-0) as the final whistle approach approaches.
Arsenal is third in the league phase with four victories in six matches.
