Balogun Scores and Receives Red Card in Monaco’s Loss

United States forward Folarin Balogun netted a goal but was subsequently sent off as Monaco faced a 4-1 defeat to Lens in Ligue 1 on Saturday.

Match Details

Following his first career goal in the Champions League earlier in the week, Balogun converted a penalty late in the first half for Monaco. However, he was issued a red card just before halftime for a reckless challenge on midfielder Mamadou Sangaré, which altered the match’s momentum.

Scoring Summary

• Monaco:
  • Folarin Balogun (penalty)
• Lens:
  • Odsonne Édouard
  • Wesley Saïd
  • Mamadou Sangaré
  • Wesley Saïd (second goal)

Current Standings

At halftime, Lens led 3-1, thanks to goals from Édouard, Saïd, and Sangaré. Saïd added another goal in the second half, helping Lens match Marseille at the top of the Ligue 1 standings with 25 points, while also putting pressure on Paris Saint-Germain, who have been dealing with several injuries.

Additional Highlights

In other matches, English footballers Angel Gomes and Mason Greenwood scored for Marseille in their 3-0 victory against Brest, allowing them to lead the table on goal difference ahead of Lens. Gomes scored from a free kick, benefitting from a mishap by the opposing goalkeeper, while Greenwood successfully converted a penalty following a foul against teammate Igor Paixão.

As the competition heats up, Lyon has a chance to close the gap on PSG with a win on Sunday, which would position them just one point behind. PSG is currently dealing with injuries to key players, including Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé.

This report includes information from the Associated Press.