Monaco secured their first Champions League group stage win of the season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bodo/Glimt, thanks to a stunning goal from Folarin Balogun. The USMNT star's strike proved to be the difference in a match that saw Bodo/Glimt reduced to ten men.
Balogun's Brilliance Breaks the Deadlock
The game started with Monaco dominating possession, but they struggled to break down a resolute Bodo/Glimt defence. Takumi Minamino had an early chance, but his shot was blocked. Just before halftime, Balogun produced a moment of magic. He latched onto a through-ball from Maghnes Akliouche, cleverly shifted the ball onto his left foot, and fired a powerful shot past the keeper Nikita Haikin into the near post.
Bodo/Glimt's Fightback Falters
Bodo/Glimt came out stronger in the second half, determined to extend their unbeaten run. Jens Petter Hauge's free-kick was brilliantly saved by Philipp Kohn, and Kasper HĂžgh missed a golden opportunity to equalise. However, their hopes were dashed when Jostein Gundersen was sent off after a VAR review upgraded his yellow card to a straight red for a rash tackle.
What's Next for Both Teams?
Bodo/Glimt will host Juventus in their next Champions League match, while Monaco will travel to Cyprus to face Pafos FC. Monaco will be hoping to continue their winning form, while Bodo/Glimt will be looking to bounce back from this defeat.
- Player of the Match: Caio Henrique (Average rating 8.00)
Balogun's goal was his first in the Champions League this season and his third in his last six matches for Monaco. He is also in good form for the USMNT, having scored against Japan and Ecuador in recent international friendlies.