Monaco and Nantes Clash Amidst Relegation Concerns

MONACO, Monaco — AS Monaco is set to face FC Nantes at Stade Louis II on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 6 p.m. local time, as both teams grapple with pressing concerns in Ligue 1. While Monaco aims to recover from recent setbacks, Nantes is desperate to escape relegation threats.

Monaco enters the match in a troubling position, having lost six of their last ten games since January. This decline culminated in a 1-0 defeat at home to Benfica in the Champions League, putting them at risk of elimination from the prestigious tournament. With only three wins in their last six Ligue 1 matches, Monaco finds themselves outside the top four for the first time since last August.

The team’s head coach, Adi Hütter, faces a significant challenge as his squad struggles defensively. Although Monaco remains formidable in attack, they have conceded 12 goals in 2025, placing them second in the league for most goals allowed. Only Reims has conceded more, with 15 goals thus far.

“It’s crucial that we regain our confidence,” Hütter stated. “The upcoming games are vital for our campaign, particularly this match against Nantes, where we have historically performed well.”

Monaco’s last three home games have seen them score and concede at least twice, a trend that could lead to another high-scoring affair if it continues. They have not lost to Nantes in their last 13 Ligue 1 meetings, winning the last five encounters.

The visitors, Nantes, currently sit in 15th place with only 21 points from 21 matches. Despite being three points clear of the relegation zone, they have been struggling, marked by a recent 2-0 defeat to Brest. Historically, Nantes has been particularly vulnerable against Monaco, losing 47 times in their Ligue 1 history.

“This match is critical for us,” said Nantes head coach Antoine Kombouaré. “We need to improve our performances or risk being dragged into the relegation battle. We know Monaco is facing struggles, but we cannot overlook their quality.”

Nantes will see the return of defender Nicolas Pallois, who missed previous fixtures due to a suspension, but they will still be without three key players due to injuries. Despite their struggles, Nantes has secured more points away from home (11) than at home (10) this season, which might boost their morale heading into this matchup.

For Monaco, midfielder Soungoutou Magassa is expected to miss the match due to suspension, while a few players remain sidelined with injuries. Hütter may utilize new signings to bolster the lineup, especially considering their recent form.

The anticipated starting lineups for the matchup are as follows:

Monaco’s potential starting lineup: Majecki; Vanderson, Kehrer, Salisu, Mawissa; Minamino, Camara, Zakaria, Golovin; Ilenikhena, Biereth.

Nantes’ potential starting lineup: Lopes; Coco, Castelletto, Pallois, Cozza; Douglas Augusto, Pedro Chirivella, Lepenant; Abline, Mohamed, Simon.

The stakes are high for both teams, as Monaco looks to solidify a top-four finish and Nantes strives for vital points to avoid relegation. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. local time, and fans on both sides will be eager to see how this clash unfolds.