Reims 4-2 Montpellier: Reims Extends Winning Streak in Ligue 1 Match
Reims continued their strong run of form in Ligue 1, securing a thrilling 4-2 victory over Montpellier in a Round 7 clash at the Stade Auguste-Delaune on October 6, 2024.
This win marked yet another positive result for Reims, who have shown impressive consistency this season, while Montpellier were left to reflect on another frustrating loss.
1st Half Highlights: A Fast-Paced Start from Reims
Reims wasted no time asserting their dominance from the kickoff. The home team played with high energy, and their aggressive attacking play paid off just six minutes into the game. Oumar Diakite, who was pivotal in Reims’ attacking setup, sent in a perfect lofted cross that found Marshall Munetsi in the box. Munetsi timed his header brilliantly, guiding the ball into the left corner past a helpless Dimitry Bertaud, giving Reims an early 1-0 lead.
Montpellier looked unsettled by the early goal and struggled to get a grip on the game, with Reims continuing to apply pressure. By the 25th minute, Reims had doubled their lead in spectacular fashion. Keito Nakamura weaved through the Montpellier defense and unleashed a fantastic strike from the edge of the penalty area, finding the bottom left corner of the net. The goal left Bertaud with no chance, and Reims were 2-0 up with the home fans roaring in approval.
Montpellier, however, refused to be overwhelmed and managed to pull a goal back in the 37th minute. Wahbi Khazri, known for his creative play, found Arnaud Nordin with a precise pass on the edge of the box. Nordin produced a clinical finish, curling the ball into the right side of the goal to make it 2-1 and give Montpellier some hope heading into halftime.
Montpellier Struggles with Discipline
One of the key themes in the first half was Montpellier’s struggles with discipline. Akor Adams received a yellow card in the 37th minute for unsportsmanlike conduct, and it was a sign of things to come for the visitors. Montpellier’s frustration was visible, as their inability to break down Reims’ well-organized defense led to a series of fouls and careless challenges.
The first half ended with Reims leading 2-1, and though Montpellier had a slight advantage in ball possession (54% to Reims’ 46%), they were unable to convert that into any sustained pressure or clear chances.
2nd Half: Reims’ Control and Montpellier’s Defensive Woes
The second half began with Reims looking to put the game beyond doubt. They quickly reestablished their two-goal cushion just eight minutes after the break. Once again, Diakite was instrumental, sending a beautiful cross into the box. This time, it was Diakite himself who finished the move, rising above the Montpellier defense to head the ball into the back of the net. The score was now 3-1, and Reims looked to be in complete control.
Montpellier’s defense continued to struggle under the pressure from Reims’ quick, fluid attacks. The lack of discipline also persisted, with Stefan Dzodic being booked for a late challenge in the 49th minute. Diakite’s yellow card in the 59th minute further highlighted the tense nature of the game, as tempers flared on both sides. Montpellier’s captain Teji Savanier was also booked in the 64th minute for dissent, as he voiced his frustration with the referee.
Despite their poor discipline and defensive issues, Montpellier managed to claw their way back into the match in the dying minutes. In the 90th minute, Arnaud Nordin found the net once again after pouncing on a loose ball inside the box, firing a powerful shot into the top left corner to reduce the deficit to 3-2. At this point, it looked like Montpellier might stage a dramatic comeback.
Reims Seals the Win with Late Drama
However, just as Montpellier were sensing an opportunity, they were dealt a crushing blow in stoppage time. A Montpellier defender was penalized for a handball inside the box, and after the visitors protested the decision, the referee pointed to the spot. Reims’ midfielder Teddy Teuma stepped up to take the penalty in the 93rd minute, coolly slotting the ball into the right corner as Bertaud committed to the opposite side. The penalty sealed a 4-2 victory for Reims, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Key Positives and Negatives for Each Team
Reims: A Balanced and Effective Performance
Positives:
1. Clinical Finishing: Reims were ruthless in front of goal, with each of their four goals coming from well-executed plays. Diakite, Munetsi, and Nakamura all contributed to the team’s attacking threat, and they showed great composure in finishing their chances.
2. Midfield Control: Reims’ midfield was solid throughout the match. Yaya-Kader Fofana and Teddy Teuma were excellent in breaking up play and initiating counter-attacks, ensuring that Reims maintained control in key moments of the match.
3. Defensive Solidity: Although they conceded two goals, Reims’ defense largely held firm against Montpellier’s attacks. The backline, led by Fofana, limited Montpellier’s clear goal-scoring opportunities, and their organization was key to the victory.
Negatives:
1. Late Lapses in Concentration: Despite their strong performance, Reims allowed Montpellier back into the game late on, with Nordin’s second goal creating unnecessary tension. They will need to improve their concentration levels to avoid such lapses in future matches.
Montpellier: A Spirited but Undisciplined Display
Positives:
1. Fighting Spirit: Montpellier showed great resilience to keep themselves in the match, especially after going down 2-0 early. Nordin was a bright spark, and his two goals were a testament to Montpellier’s fighting spirit.
2. Ball Possession: Montpellier had more of the ball (54%), which shows that they were able to dictate play in certain parts of the match. However, they struggled to convert possession into clear-cut chances.
Negatives:
1. Defensive Fragility: Montpellier’s defense was shaky throughout the match. They struggled to deal with Reims’ crosses and aerial threats, and their lack of organization at the back was costly.
2. Poor Discipline: Montpellier’s disciplinary issues were a major problem. With five yellow cards, including for key players like Savanier, their ill-discipline disrupted their flow and allowed Reims to capitalize on set-pieces and free kicks.
3. Inability to Create Chances: Despite having more possession, Montpellier managed just three shots on target. Their attacking play was largely disjointed, and they will need to work on their creativity going forward.
Final Thoughts
Reims continue their march up the Ligue 1 table with another impressive win, while Montpellier’s struggles persist as they search for consistency. Reims’ ability to capitalize on their chances and maintain composure in key moments was the difference in this match, as Montpellier’s defensive issues and lack of discipline undermined their efforts.
As the Ligue 1 season progresses, both teams will need to reflect on their performances. For Reims, maintaining focus in the final minutes will be crucial, while Montpellier must tighten up defensively and find a way to improve their discipline if they are to avoid further setbacks.
