Maghnes Akliouche and George Ilenikhena clinched it for Monaco against FC Barcelona

2 Monaco vs 1 FC Barcelona

Monaco emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter on Thursday at Stade Louis II against FC Barcelona. The Champions League clash ended 2-1 in favor of the home side.

FC Barcelona found themselves at a disadvantage early on, as Eric García was sent off in the 10th minute.

Monaco capitalized on their early dominance, with Maghnes Akliouche breaking the deadlock in the 16th minute. Vanderson provided the assist to put Monaco ahead 1-0.

However, FC Barcelona equalized just before the half-hour mark. Lamine Yamal found the back of the net, courtesy of an assist by Marc Casadó, making it 1-1.

The game hung in the balance until the 71st minute, when George Ilenikhena scored the decisive goal. Once again, Vanderson was the provider, sealing Monaco’s 2-1 victory.

With this win, Monaco now sits 14th in the table, while FC Barcelona finds themselves in 27th place.

Monaco's head coach, Adi Hütter, expressed his delight after the match, telling UEFA.com, "Yes, it was the perfect start. A fantastic victory, happy for the team, happy for our fans, and for the club."

Looking ahead, Monaco will face Dinamo Zagreb away on 2 October, host Monaco on 22 October, and travel to Bologna on 5 November.

FC Barcelona, on the other hand, will play Young Boys at home on 1 October, FC Bayern München at home on 23 October, and Crvena Zvezda away on 6 November.