A reborn Takumi Minamino played a starring role as AS Monaco eased to a comfortable 3-0 victory against Strasbourg at the Stade Louis II on Sunday.
Adi Hütter couldn’t have asked for more on his home debut as Monaco manager. After a six-goal thriller against Clermont Foot last week, the Principality club continued their 100% record, swatting aside an unambitious Strasbourg side, who according to manager Patrick Vieira “showed a lack of personality.”
Minamino, who looked a shadow of his former self last season, has started the season in scintillating form. After a strong performance and an assist against Clermont, he netted twice, whilst also assisting the third.
Heatwave leads to a change in the schedule
The Japanese international’s stunning long-range strike opened the scoring midway through the first half. He soon added a second, expertly guiding Caio Henrique’s cross past Matz Sels.
The half-time break didn’t curb the Principality club’s momentum. Wissam Ben Yedder got on the end of Minamin’s pass to make it three and Monaco were coasting. Due to the ongoing heatwave, the match was moved from 17:00 (CEST) to 19:00 (CEST), but conditions were still stifling. On a humid, energy-sapping night at the Stade Louis, Monaco didn’t have to overly exert themselves, especially in the second half.
In front of President Dmitry Rybolovlev and Prince Albert II, the Principality club lived up to the occasion, securing a well-deserved three points, which takes them top of Ligue 1.
“It was a very clear victory because we controlled the game for 90 minutes. I was happy with the team because it was a completely different game than against Clermont,” said Hütter post-match.
He added, “Two games, six points, but slowly, slowly. It’s been a good start to the season. We won more battles, were much more aggressive, and saw lots more positivity.”
Monaco next face FC Nantes on Friday as they look to retain their perfect start and their place at the top of the table.
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Photo source: AS Monaco