Monaco – Dijon 14.09.2012

The match between second placed Monaco and the leader Dijon is the most interesting fixture in French League Two this weekend.

It is expected a big fight, but I still believe Monaco is closer to the victory. Here are the reasons.

The first reason is connect with the team news. Monaco coach Claudio Ranieri has two sidelined players – the captain Andreas Wolf is suspended, while Sebastian Ribas is injured. However, this shouldn’t be a problem for Ranieri as he has plenty of options on every position. Dijon on other side have defender Abdoulaye Bamba suspended, while two other defenders, Steven Paulle and Ousseynou Cisse, are doubtful with injuries. I rate Dijon handicap as much bigger, even if some of two injured players recover on time. It is clear none of them will be 100 percent ready.
The second reason is connect with Monaco home form. They are very superior at Stade Louis II and have three victories in three home matches.

The third reason is connect with Dijon best player Benjamin Corgnet. He was the brain of the team and the best goalscorer at the same time with 3 goals. But Corgnet left Dijon and joined Lorient for 4 millions EUR. Without him, I think Dijon will struggle in the future. I believe Dijon will hardly escape the defeat in Monaco even with Corgnet in the team, not to mention now.

At the end I will mention that the last mutual game between two teams was in the season 2005/06. Monaco won 1:0 in League Cup match played on 26.10.2005. I expect Monaco victory again.