Minamino’s Double Helps Monaco Secure Big Win Over Red Star

Takumi Minamino scored twice as Monaco thrashed Red Star Belgrade 5-1 in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, securing seven points from their first three group matches.

The other goals came from Breel Embolo, Wilfried Singo with a long-range shot, and Magnes Akliouche, as Monaco dominated a match in which they missed several other clear opportunities.

Red Star, who scored their only goal via a penalty from Sherif Ndiaye after the Senegalese international was fouled, managed to frustrate the hosts for much of the first half but capitulated after the break, fortunate to leave with only five goals conceded.

Minamino broke the offside trap to put Monaco ahead after 20 minutes, but their lead lasted just seven minutes before Ndiaye equalized from the spot.

Embolo restored Monaco’s advantage in first-half stoppage time with his first goal of the season, and Singo extended the lead nine minutes into the second half with a stunning 35-meter strike.

Defensive errors helped Embolo set up Minamino’s second goal 20 minutes from time, before Akliouche rounded off the scoring with a shot that hit the post before finding the net in the game’s final attack.

Red Star, who host Barcelona in their next Champions League match on November 6, have lost all three of their group-stage matches so far.

Monaco will next face Bologna away on November 5 in the Champions League.