Monaco comes back to life: first victory of the Pocognoli era

AS Monaco finally found the spark it had been missing. In a tense, determined battle, Sébastien Pocognoli’s men defeated Toulouse FC 1-0 at the Stade Louis II, securing their first win under the Belgian manager.
The hero of the evening was Mohammed Salisu, who, just three minutes into the game, delivered a powerful header from a pinpoint Kassoum Ouattara cross. That goal set the tone for the match, aggressive, tactical, and full of intent from a Monaco side eager to rediscover its identity.

Pocognoli’s plan was clear from the first whistle: high pressing, wide intensity, and constant attacking movement. Ansu Fati came close to doubling the lead but ran into the wall known as Guillaume Restes, the Toulouse goalkeeper, who kept his team alive with a string of spectacular saves.

Toulouse fought hard but lacked bite

Despite the early setback, Toulouse refused to back down. They held more possession at times and tried to threaten through set pieces, but lacked the finishing touch. Key saves from Philipp Köhn and a rock-solid defense led by Salisu ensured that the equalizer never came.

Head coach Carles Martínez Novell tried to shake things up by introducing Sauer and Kamanzi, looking for more rhythm and attacking threat. However, poor finishing proved costly. Monaco, on the other hand, showed composure and discipline. Closing spaces, managing the tempo, and defending the lead with intelligence.

Pocognoli starts on solid ground

Sébastien Pocognoli’s managerial debut for Monaco couldn’t have gone any better. Beyond the scoreline, the team displayed something it had been missing in recent matches: personality.
The coach fielded a balanced lineup and made timely tactical adjustments when Toulouse pressed high. The introductions of Maghnes Akliouche and George Ilenikhena injected energy and kept the visitors at bay.

“The team needed to believe again,” said Pocognoli after the match. And that’s exactly what was seen: a Monaco full of hunger, confidence, and defensive solidity, willing to fight for every ball.

The Principality reborn: a win worth more than three points

Beyond the numbers, this victory represents a new beginning for Monaco. After weeks of uncertainty and inconsistent performances, the 1-0 win over Toulouse marks the start of a new chapter, one built on tactical structure, trust, and renewed energy.

The Stade Louis II crowd didn’t just celebrate the result; they celebrated a return to control and maturity. With Salisu as the standout performer and Ouattara reaffirming himself as one of the team’s brightest prospects, optimism is once again in the air in the Principality.

The next challenge will be to maintain this momentum and prove that this win was no coincidence. One thing is clear: Pocognoli’s Monaco has awakened.