# Monaco Edges Nantes in Ligue 1 Round 2 with Ben Yedder's Double
Monaco secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Nantes in the second round of Ligue 1, thanks in large part to a brace from Ben Yedder. The match, played at Stade Louis II, saw both teams fight until the final whistle, but it was Monaco who ultimately emerged victorious.
### Match Summary
The game started evenly contested, with neither side able to establish a significant early lead. However, Monaco took control in the 22nd minute when Ben Yedder, who had joined the club on loan from Real Betis earlier in the summer, scored his first goal of the season. The forward, known for his pace and clinical finishing, fired a low shot past Nantes' goalkeeper, giving Monaco a 1-0 lead.
Nantes responded well and almost leveled the score in the 35th minute when Gaëtan Laborde’s free kick found the head of Khéphren Thuram, but the striker’s effort flew wide of the target. Despite this missed opportunity, Nantes remained a constant threat.
The second half saw Monaco extend their lead. In the 57th minute, Yedder once again proved to be the difference maker. This time, it was a stunning individual effort. The 25-year-old dribbled past two defenders and fired a powerful shot into the top corner, putting Monaco 2-0 ahead.
Nantes refused to back down, though. In the 78th minute, they pulled one back through Thuram, who this time converted a penalty after a handball decision against Monaco’s Cesc Fabbri. The goal gave the visitors hope, but Monaco held firm and saw out the remainder of the game to secure all three points.
### Key Moments
Ben Yedder’s double was undoubtedly the highlight of the match. His first goal, a composed finish, showed his confidence and composure, while his second goal was a moment of pure brilliance. It was a reminder of his ability to influence a game at the highest level.
For Nantes, the penalty decision against Fabbri was controversial, but Thuram’s reaction showed his character. The striker, who has been in fine form this season, will be disappointed not to have converted the equalizer after the missed chance earlier in the half.
### Player Performance
Ben Yedder’s performance was pivotal for Monaco. His two goals not only gave his team the lead but also kept them in control during periods of Nantes’ pressure. Yedder’s work rate and clinical nature up front make him a valuable asset, and his goal-scoring ability is a key reason why Monaco are often considered one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
Elsewhere, Monaco’s defensive stability was crucial. Center-backs Axel Disasi and Nikolaos Mavraj were solid at the back, limiting Nantes’ attacking options. Meanwhile, Nantes’ attack, led by Thuram and Laborde, continued to create chances but lacked the finishing touch to break down a resolute Monaco defense.
### Next Steps
Monaco will look to build on this victory as they prepare for their next game against Montpellier. With Yedder in fine form, the club will be confident of continuing their strong start to the season.
Nantes, on the other hand, will need to regroup. Despite the loss, their performance showed that they are a capable side, and they will be looking to bounce back in their next fixture against Reims.
In a competitive league like Ligue 1, every match is a battle, and both teams will take something positive from this encounter. For Monaco, the win is a step in the right direction, while Nantes will aim to learn from their mistakes and improve in their next outing.