Club Brugge kicked off their UEFA Champions League campaign in spectacular fashion, securing a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Monaco. A devastating first-half performance from the Belgian side was more than enough to overwhelm the visitors, marking the team’s third head-to-head win in five meetings against the French club.
Fresh off a decisive qualification against Rangers, Club Brugge started the match with intent, creating an early opportunity for Christos Tzolis who narrowly missed the target. However, the game’s first major turning point came minutes later when Monaco was awarded a penalty. A well-executed team move resulted in Mika Biereth being brought down by goalkeeper Simon Mignolet. The veteran keeper, however, redeemed himself with a brilliant save to deny Maghnes Akliouche from the spot.
Mignolet’s evening was cut short shortly after, as he was forced off due to an injury. Despite the setback, the home side seized control of the game, dominating possession and creating numerous chances. The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute when Nicolo Tresoldi, on his UCL debut, scored with a precise finish after a clever pass from Hans Vanaken.
The goals continued to flow in rapid succession. Just minutes later, Raphael Onyedika capitalized on a defensive lapse from a corner to power home Brugge’s second. The first-half rout was completed when Vanaken, the team’s captain, scored a superb volley from the edge of the box, putting the hosts in a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime.
With a comfortable advantage, Club Brugge eased off the pressure in the second half, allowing the visitors to try and find their rhythm. Monaco struggled to make a significant impact, and Brugge further extended their lead in the 75th minute. Following a quick counter-attack, Mamadou Diakhon collected the ball, sold a dummy, and found the back of the net to make it 4-0.
A late consolation goal from Ansu Fati did little to change the outcome for Adi Hutter’s men, who will now turn their attention to a challenging upcoming fixture against Manchester City.
This emphatic win extends Club Brugge’s impressive unbeaten home run to seven games (W6, D1) and provides a strong platform for their next group stage match away to Atalanta.
