Balogun Matches Neymar’s Scoring Streak as Pogba Makes Comeback

Paris FC Dominates AS Monaco

Folarin Balogun scored for the seventh consecutive match in Ligue 1, while Paul Pogba made his long-awaited return from injury. However, AS Monaco faced a heavy defeat against Paris FC, with a final score of 4-1 on Friday.

Early Goals Set the Tone

Paris FC made a significant impact early in the game by netting three goals within the first 24 minutes, decisively ending Monaco’s seven-game winning streak.

Balogun managed to score in the 36th minute, keeping his remarkable form alive. He has now become the first player since Neymar, who achieved the feat with Paris Saint-Germain in 2022, to score in seven consecutive matches in France’s top division.

Nearing a Historic Record

The U.S. striker is now just one game away from tying the record for the most consecutive Ligue 1 games with a goal, a record shared by Shabani Nonda and Rony Lopes from Monaco.

Pogba’s Long-Awaited Return

Pogba entered the field in the 69th minute, marking his first appearance since December due to a recurring issue with his left calf. The 2018 World Cup champion signed a two-year deal with Monaco last summer but had previously played only about 30 minutes since his debut at the end of November.

Monaco’s coach, Sébastien Pocognoli, praised Pogba’s potential impact in training, stating that he could provide the needed technical skill against a solid defense. However, the game took a turn five minutes after his introduction when Monaco conceded another goal, altering their strategies.

Goals from Paris FC

Jonathan Ikoné scored two goals, separated by a strike from Ciro Immobile, putting the hosts firmly in control. Paris substitute Luca Koleosho added the fourth goal in the 71st minute, continuing Antoine Kombouaré’s impressive run as coach since his appointment in late February.

Under Kombouaré, Paris FC has remained unbeaten in six matches, amassing 12 points out of a possible 18.

Monaco’s Defeat and Future Aspirations

This defeat was a tough blow for Monaco, which currently sits fifth in the league as they aim for a Champions League position. The top three teams qualify directly for next year’s tournament, while the fourth place enters a qualifying stage.

Pocognoli commented on the match, acknowledging that they were up against a well-performing team with an effective system and recognized that they paid the price for overconfidence, especially after conceding three goals within the first 20 minutes.