AS Monaco claimed a crucial Ligue 1 victory away at Auxerre in a match that had plenty of drama. The turning point came in the 73rd minute when Ghanaian defender Mohammed Salisu deflected the ball into his own net, momentarily reviving Auxerre’s hopes. Yet despite this setback, Monaco demonstrated resilience and secured all three points.
Up until the incident, Salisu had been one of Monaco’s most reliable players on the pitch. His aerial strength, decisive tackling, and precise positioning kept Auxerre’s strikers under control for most of the match. However, when trying to cut out a low cross from the right, his clearance inadvertently wrong-footed his goalkeeper, allowing Auxerre back into the contest.
The own goal could have shifted the momentum completely, but Monaco’s reaction was immediate. With a dominant midfield and quick transitions, the Principality side regained control, pressed high, and created multiple chances until their superiority was rewarded. This winning mentality ensures they remain close to the top places in the Ligue 1 standings.
For Mohammed Salisu, the evening was bittersweet. While the own goal was a significant mishap, his overall performance underlined why Monaco trusted him to lead their backline. His composure, duel-winning ability, and defensive awareness confirm his value, even on a night when one unlucky incident nearly cost his team.