Benfica Secures Narrow Victory Over Monaco in Champions League Playoff First Leg

A second-half goal by Pavlidis and a controversial red card for Monaco's Al Musrati defined the match at Stade Louis-II.

Benfica defeated AS Monaco 1-0 in the first leg of their Champions League playoff, with a decisive goal scored by Greek forward Vangelis Pavlidis in the 48th minute.
Monaco struggled to create significant offensive threats, managing only a few shots on target throughout the match.
Al Musrati received a controversial red card in the 52nd minute, leaving Monaco to play with 10 men for most of the second half.
The match marked a continuation of Monaco's difficulties against Benfica, following a previous loss to the Portuguese side during the group stage in November.
The second leg will take place next week at Benfica's Estadio da Luz, where Monaco will need a strong performance to advance to the round of 16.