Barcelona’s perfect start to the season came to an abrupt end as they lost 2-1 to AS Monaco at the Stade Louis II in their Champions League opener on Thursday night. The Catalans faced an uphill battle after Eric García received a red card just 10 minutes into the match, forcing them to play the remainder with ten men.
FIRST HALF
Hansi Flick’s decision to start Eric García backfired quickly when a poor pass from mónaco – barcelona ter Stegen led to García fouling Takumi Minamino at the edge of the box, resulting in a straight red for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Monaco capitalized on the advantage, with Maghnes Akliouche scoring a stunning goal in the 15th minute. As Barça struggled to reorganize, they were under pressure from Monaco’s attacks. However, key interventions from Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez, along with well-timed offside traps, kept the score from escalating.
Barça adjusted their tactics, focusing on quick transitions rather than possession. Lamine Yamal was instrumental in helping the team regain composure and, with a brilliant finish, he scored his first career Champions League goal to level the match.
The final moments of the first half were chaotic, with both teams exchanging hard tackles and opportunities, leading to a flurry of yellow cards from the referee. Despite being down a man, Barça entered halftime still in contention.
SECOND HALF
The second half started positively for Barça, who shifted to a more defensive posture to limit Monaco’s chances. They looked dangerous on the counter, with early efforts threatening the hosts.
However, Monaco gradually regained control. A pivotal substitution from Adi Hütter led to George Ilenikhena scoring, putting Monaco ahead again.
Barça struggled to find momentum in their attempts to equalize. Hansi Flick’s options were limited, and the introduction of Ferran Torres was the only attacking change in the last 10 minutes. Monaco remained composed, pressing high to secure the victory.
In a dramatic moment, the referee awarded a penalty for Monaco late in the match, but VAR overturned the decision, confirming that Folarin Balogun had dived.
Barça had a final chance to snatch a point from a free-kick just outside the box, but Raphinha’s shot sailed over the bar. As the clock ran down, Monaco effectively wasted time, and the final whistle confirmed their victory.
While the loss stings, the resilience and organization displayed by Barça with ten men showed their potential under Flick. Despite the defeat, it’s a reminder that they can compete at a high level and suggests better nights are ahead in Europe this season.
