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Will Nantes redeem themselves, or will AS Monaco maintain their high-flying status? The stage is set at Stade de la Beaujoire on August 25 for a thrilling Ligue 1 clash.

The Background

Nantes will be hoping to turn their fortunes around as they host AS Monaco on August 25. After two consecutive losses, the team is in dire need of a morale-boosting performance. On the other hand, Monaco, high on confidence after back-to-back wins, will be eyeing the top spot. Historical data suggests a tilt in Monaco’s favour, but in football, the outcome on the pitch is what truly matters.

The Home Struggles

Nantes’ start to the 2023-24 season has been nothing short of disappointing. Their unexpected loss against Toulouse, followed by the defeat to Lille, has cast a shadow over the team’s hopes for a strong season. Manager Pierre Aristouy’s tactics, especially in the attacking front, have been called into question, especially after having 14 shots without scoring in the last game.

The Canaries’ home record doesn’t inspire confidence either. With just five wins out of their last 19 home league games, turning the Stade de la Beaujoire into a fortress seems a distant dream. Yet, they have managed not to lose to AS Monaco in their last three encounters at home, a statistic they’d hope to lean on.

Monaco’s Momentum

AS Monaco, in stark contrast, has been the team to watch. Their commanding victories against Clermont and Strasbourg have sent a clear message to their rivals. With key forward Wissam Ben-Yedder in scintillating form, having scored in both fixtures, and a midfield that’s dominating possession, Monaco seems well poised to challenge for the title.

Historical dominance is also on their side. Boasting 22 wins from the last 44 meetings with Nantes, and being unbeaten in 10 Ligue 1 games against them, the odds are certainly in Monaco’s favour.

Key Players & Formations

Nantes will likely stick with their 3-4-2-1 formation, with Mostafa Mohamed, who scored in the opening weekend, leading the line. With injuries to key players like Alban Lafont and Ignatius Ganago, Nantes needs its substitutes to rise to the occasion.

Monaco, matching Nantes’ formation, will deploy the duo of Wissam Ben-Yedder and Takumi Minamino upfront, with Aleksandr Golovin providing the creative spark. Their strength lies in their midfield, with Fofana and Camara anchoring the centre.

The Prediction

Given the current form, historical data, and key player performances, AS Monaco emerges as the clear favourite. Their attacking prowess, combined with Nantes’ shaky defence, points towards a possible away victory. However, football is unpredictable, and Nantes, with their backs against the wall, might just spring a surprise.

Expected result: AS Monaco to win 2-1.

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