The semi-final stage of the French Cup takes place this week. In one of the most open tournaments in recent years, Monaco and Nantes will meet at this stage of the competition. But, which of the sides will be able to progress through to the next round of the competition?
French Cup Preview
Nantes will have home advantage for the semi-final clash this week. That is a factor that could potentially be significant, as they have won their last three ties in this season’s competition that they have played at home. The closest that they came to being eliminated came in the round of 64, as they needed penalties to see off Sochaux.
Nantes are chasing history this season, as they look to win this competition for the fourth time in their history. Their last two victories in the French Cup came in successive seasons in 1998-99 and 1999-2000.
They weren’t troubled massively in the previous round of the competition, as they eased through with a 2-0 success against Bastia. Ludovic Bias scored the opener after just three minutes, before the tie was wrapped up with 20 minutes remaining, as Randal Kolo Muani sealed the victory.
AS Monaco have been losing finalists in the French Cup on two occasions since 2009, and will be looking for a first victory in the competition since 1991 this season. It shouldn’t faze them with playing on the road this week, as they have picked up three victories from four rounds away from home.
They had rare home advantage in the previous round of the competition. Monaco were far too strong for Amiens in that round, as they sealed a very comfortable 2-0 victory at the Stade Louis II. Aurelien Tchouameni scored after five minutes, before Kevin Volland made sure of the victory nine minutes into the second period.
Nantes vs Monaco Head to Head
Monaco are unbeaten in eight against Nantes coming into this tie. They have won six of the previous meetings during that time. However, the last two have both ended in draws, which includes the 0-0 draw that the sides played out in the previous meeting back in January.
Nantes vs Monaco Prediction
Nantes victories in this fixture have been few and far between. Therefore, we could see that trend being important for the semi-final clash on Wednesday. Our pick is for Monaco to reach the final with a comfortable 2-0 win.
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