Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Ligue 1 match.
This is a Matchday 4 fixture. In the previous round, AS Monaco edged RC Strasbourg Alsace (3:2), while AJ Auxerre lost (0:1) to last season’s strugglers Nantes. Two weeks ago AJ Auxerre were away; on Saturday the home crowd should help.
AJ Auxerre
How much does that really change, given Auxerre now face AS Monaco? Away, they won the shot count 14-4 against Nantes, yet the hosts benefited from the experienced goalkeeper Alban Lafont. In goal, AS Monaco have used either Radosław Majecki or Philipp Köhn. The Pole replaced the Swiss after an injury in Matchday 2. He was not flawless: Strasbourg Alsace produced only 1.62 xG and managed just four shots on target.
AS Monaco
AS Monaco, by contrast, punished almost every RC Strasbourg Alsace error. A defensive mistake for the opener left the goalkeeper with little chance. The second came from a midfield mix-up and a quick break into the penalty area. The squad outperformed the statistics: three goals from 1.94 xG. In the 0:1 defeat to LOSC Lille, they still generated 1.25 xG.
AJ Auxerre vs AS Monaco Prediction
Philipp Köhn is likely to return and help the team in Burgundy, but that may not keep the game tight. Outstanding saves might be required, and will the Swiss be ready to deliver them immediately after injury? AS Monaco are expected to prioritise attack, which could logically lead to a high-scoring game.
