Camara, Seghir, Diatta, Singo qualify for the UEFA Champions League with Monaco

On Saturday, May 10, 2025, AS Monaco punched their ticket to the next UEFA Champions League at Stade Louis-II, clinching a 2-0 win over Olympique Lyonnais on matchday 33 of Ligue 1. This victory guarantees the Monegasques, featuring several outstanding African talents, a podium finish with one round left in the league.

A decisive match for AS Monaco

Monaco entered this clash under pressure, knowing only a win would seal their Champions League place. After a fiercely contested first half, the Principality side took control in the second period. Takumi Minamino broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute, before Denis Zakaria doubled the lead six minutes later with an unstoppable header, perfectly set up by Lamine Camara. The young Senegalese midfielder once again proved to be the engine driving Monaco’s midfield.

A strong collective, a well-deserved reward

Monaco’s qualification comes as a fitting reward for their African contingent. Lamine Camara has shone throughout the season with a string of standout performances. In Ligue 1, the CAF Young African Player of the Year for 2023 and 2024 has been a revelation in Monaco’s midfield, tallying 2 goals and 7 assists in the league. His Senegalese compatriot Krépin Diatta also made his mark on the campaign.

Young Moroccan striker Eliesse Ben Seghir played his part in this success, despite spending more time on the bench since late February. The Atlas Lion notched 6 goals and 3 assists this season. Wilfried Singo, the Ivorian defender, impressed with his solidity at the back, even if consistency occasionally eluded him. All of them, along with Mohammed Salisu, are set to play a second consecutive UEFA Champions League campaign with AS Monaco—unless a summer transfer takes them elsewhere.

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.