Haaland’s brace can’t seal the win as Monaco snatches a late penalty in a dramatic UCL clash
1 octobre 2025
Match Recap
Monaco staged a dramatic 2-2 draw with Manchester City at Louis II in the UEFA Champions League group-stage clash.
City struck first when Erling Haaland finished a precise through ball in the 15th minute, lifting the ball over the keeper for a stylish opener.
Three minutes later, Monaco answered via Jordan Teze, who fired a hard shot from the edge of the box into the bottom-right corner to level the score.
In the 22nd minute, Monaco’s Vanderson left the field with an injury, making way for a substitution.
City continued to press, with Bernardo Silva’s effort saved by the keeper and Foden striking the crossbar as the hosts faced sustained pressure.
In the 44th minute Haaland struck again, heading home a cross from the left to give City a 2-1 lead at halftime.
After the break, Monaco pushed for the equalizer while City remained dangerous on the break, with both sides creating chances and the crowd reacting to every decision.
In the 61st minute Guardiola shuffled his lineup to inject more attacking intent, while Monaco responded with a measured approach, trying to exploit spaces behind City’s high line.
The decisive moment arrived a few minutes before the end when Monaco appealed for a penalty after a clash in the box. After a lengthy VAR review, the referee awarded a spot-kick to Monaco.
Eric Dier converted the penalty in the 90th minute, restoring parity and sending the Monaco fans into a frenzy as the match ended level at 2-2.
City pressed for a late winner in stoppage time, but Monaco’s defense and the goalkeeper held firm until the final whistle, leaving City short of a perfect scoreline and Monaco with a precious point in their European campaign.
Haaland’s scoring run remains remarkable, as the Norwegian striker netted his 52nd Champions League goal in his 50th appearance, further cementing his legacy in Europe. Statistics from Opta and other outlets highlight that Haaland has found the net in a way that few can match, underscoring his extraordinary form this season.
Overall, the result underlined that Monaco won’t be an easy opponent in this group, while City must tighten defensively if they want to advance without risk.
Two light punchlines: Haaland scores so often the ball is filing for a restraining order against the back of the net. And if Monaco’s defense were a sniper, they'd still be waiting for the shot—because Haaland already put the target in the back of the net twice and moved on.
