Pafos FC vs Monaco: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
Pafos FC will host AS Monaco at Alphamega Stadium in Cyprus on Wednesday, marking their first matchup in the UEFA Champions League. Both teams secured narrow victories in their previous matches and have accrued five points each in the tournament.
Pafos FC Achievements and Current Form
Pafos FC recently made history by defeating Villarreal 1-0, marking their inaugural victory in the Champions League group stage. Since their inception 11 years ago, they have significantly progressed and have proven competitive in this tournament.
The team, managed by Juan Carlos Carcedo, is on an impressive unbeaten streak across all competitions, having not conceded more than one goal in each match during this run. They aim to become the first Cypriot club to win consecutive Champions League matches.
Statistical Overview: Pafos FC
- Champions League victories: 1
- Total goals scored in League Phase: 2
- Total goals conceded in League Phase: 5
- Previous match: Victory against Villarreal
Monaco’s Recent Struggles
Conversely, AS Monaco has faced challenges lately, losing three of their last four games in all competitions. Under the direction of new manager Sebastien Pocognoli, the team has collected only three wins out of eight matches.
Despite their domestic struggles, Monaco’s defense has improved in Europe, achieving back-to-back clean sheets. This match offers them a chance to secure their first three consecutive Champions League matches without conceding since the 2014-15 group stage.
Statistical Overview: AS Monaco
- Champions League victories: 1
- Recent Ligue 1 performance: Poor, conceding 4 goals in two matches
- Last match: Victory over Bodo/Glimt
Team News and Player Updates
Pafos FC will miss key players, including Pedrao, who is recovering from cruciate ligament surgery, and Joao Correia, who is suspended. Neofytos Michail achieved a clean sheet in the last match, while Derrick Luckassen scored the winning goal.
On the other hand, Monaco could be without Christian Mawissa due to a hamstring strain and Eric Dier who has faced a recovery setback. However, Folarin Balogun, who scored against Bodo/Glimt, could return from suspension.
Projected Lineups
Pafos FC Starting XI
- Goalkeeper: Michail
- Defenders: Felipe, Luckassen, Luiz, Sema
- Midfielders: Sunjic, Goldar, Pepe
- Forwards: Jaja, Dragomir, Quina
AS Monaco Starting XI
- Goalkeeper: Hradecky
- Defenders: Kehrer, Salisu, Henrique
- Midfielders: Minamino, Teze, Zakaria, Ouattara
- Forwards: Akliouche, Golovin, Balogun
Match Prediction
The matchup between Pafos FC and Monaco presents an intriguing scenario. Despite Monaco’s greater experience, their recent defensive issues suggest a potential low-scoring affair. Our prediction is a 0-0 draw, reflecting Pafos FC’s organized defense against Monaco’s erratic performance.
