Ligue 1 action resumes on Friday night at Stade Louis II, where table-toppers AS Monaco will face off against fifth-placed Lille. Monaco enters the match with confidence after overtaking PSG, while Lille is on a solid run, eyeing the Champions League spots in their own right.
Monaco Recent Form
Monaco has been in excellent form this season, going unbeaten in their first seven games, collecting 19 points, which their best tally at this stage since the 1960-61 season.
They currently sit two points clear of PSG and have extended their unbeaten run in home league matches to 10. Monaco’s recent victories include a 2-1 win against Rennes and a solid performance against Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League.
Injury and Team News
Monaco will be without Edan Diop, who remains sidelined, while captain Denis Zakaria is a doubt after missing Switzerland's international matches.
Vanderson and Takumi Minamino might show signs of fatigue after returning from international duty. Thilo Kehrer is available despite missing Germany's recent squad.
Last Monaco Lineup
Here is how Monaco lined up in their previous match:
Lille Recent Form
Lille has regained form after a poor run of results earlier in the season. Their recent triumphs over Le Havre and Toulouse have boosted their confidence.
They also claimed a remarkable 1-0 victory against Real Madrid in the Champions League, showing their potential to challenge tough opponents.
Injury and Team News
Lille faces multiple absentees, with Benjamin Andre suspended, while Hakon Arnar Haraldsson, Ismaily, and Samuel Umtiti are sidelined due to injury.
Questions surround Jonathan David's fitness, as he only recently returned from international duty with Canada.
Last Lille Lineup
Here is how Lille lined up in their last match:
Monaco Player to Watch
Takumi Minamino has been instrumental for Monaco, contributing with goals and assists. His creativity and work rate will be key against Lille’s defence.
Lille Player to Watch
Edon Zhegrova is a player to watch for Lille. He was named Man of the Match in Kosovo’s recent international match and has been in great form, scoring seven goals this season.
Prediction
Monaco's strong home form and attacking prowess will likely see them edge past Lille, but the visitors’ recent resurgence could make for a tight contest.
Our Prediction: Monaco 2-1 Lille.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Monaco to win. With their unbeaten home record and current form, Monaco is favoured to secure all three points.
Tip 2
Both teams to score. Lille has found the net in most of their recent matches, and Monaco’s attacking style should leave openings.
Tip 3
Over 2.5 goals. Both teams have attacking firepower, making a high-scoring match likely.
