Monaco United secured another victory over AS Monaco FF on Sunday 18th October. The 3-0 win allows the team to continue its pursuit of the Women’s French Cup.
The fourth regional round took place at Stade Didier-Deschamps in Cap-d’Ail, where the first half ended goalless. Three goals for Monaco United in the second half, including two from substitute Mila Drion, left them as the Principality’s sole remaining representative in the competition.
The result also marked a second derby victory for Monaco United this season, following their win over AS Monaco FF last month in a league fixture.
A CLOSE FIRST HALF
Both teams were physically strong in the first half, challenging one another for possession. Marco Simone’s squad gradually gained control, creating opportunities but still unable to find a breakthrough.
At the other end, goalkeeper Pauline Moitrel made an important save late in the half to keep the scores level.
“A derby is always a special occasion. Even before kickoff, I could sense a great deal of focus and determination within the group,” said assistant coach Alexandre Gallet.
DRION MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
Monaco United increased the pressure in the second half, with the introduction of Mila Drion making the difference. The substitute finished a team move to give Monaco United the lead.
Sara Lakhssassi doubled that lead with 15 minutes remaining, beating her marker before firing past the goalkeeper.
“We put in a great performance, competing strongly for both first and second balls. The group remained calm and focused, even in the dressing room, and we managed to take our chances in the second half,” said Monaco United’s Kelya Gruszczynski.
As the team maintained its attacking momentum, Drion was able to add her second goal in the closing stages of the game to complete the 3-0 win.
FRENCH CUP RUN CONTINUES
The victory came after an atypical week for Monaco United, with head coach Marco Simone recovering and unable to join the team in its preparations. He followed the coaching staff’s work and the match from a distance.
“Winning a derby is always special. But what makes me happiest is the way we did it: seeing a team play together with personality, courage, and enjoyment,” he said.
Monaco United will now await the draw for the next round, with the national stages offering the possibility of facing opponents from higher divisions.
“Round after round, we are making history at Monaco United without setting ourselves any limits. That is also the magic of this competition!” said Gallet.
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Photo credit: Monaco United WFC
