AS Monaco 1-0 FC Nantes

THE MATCH

Monaco did not look affected by the departure of vice-president Vadim Vasiliyev as they made it three consecutive games unbeaten in Ligue 1 Conforama for the first time this season, a run in which they have accrued seven precious points.

Nantes were without centre-half Nicolas Pallois, in Argentina for the funeral of his great friend Emiliano Sala. Les Canaris fell behind (13') as Monaco scored with their first attack of note. Rony Lopes played a one-two with Radmel Falcao before supplying an excellent low cross that Gelson Martins finished off at the far post.

Nantes goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarusanu was a busy man as he saved a 25-metre Lopes shot (21') and then denied Benoît Badiashile (24'). Monaco had further chances to increase their lead before the break and the Romanian international goalkeeper kept out a Falcao header from a Martins cross.

Former Monaco man Valentin Eyseric (54') couldn't find the target for the visitors, while only a fine Abdoulaye Touré challenge prevented Lopes from finishing (60').  Tatarusanu saved from Alexsandr Golovin (74') and former Nantes favourite Géorges-Kévin Nkoudou went close to opening his Monaco account (88') after joining on loan from Tottenham.

Nantes had scored a vital win at Caen in midweek but were unable to follow up here, spurning an opening early in the five minutes of added time (90+1') at the end of the game when Touré shot wide.

THE PLAYER: Gelson Martins

The 23-year-old Portuguese has been terrific since joining on loan from Atlético Madrid. After an assist on his league debut in the home win over Toulouse, Martins has followed up with a goal in the draw at Montpellier and a controlled winner against Nantes. The winger's pace, skill and understanding with the Principality club's other attackers have made Monaco a far more dangerous team to face.

THE STAT: 6

Monaco have won their last six home Ligue 1 Conforama games against Nantes.