Goal-scorer Radamel Falcao and goalkeeper Kossi Agassa stand out as the pride of their respective clubs in France’s Ligue 1. Having faced each other on the 8th day of the league, the match concluded in a one-all draw, leaving a sense of unfinished business. Ironically, Falcao and Agassa now find themselves in the League Cup’s round of 16, where one of them must exit the competition.
Two Players to Keep an Eye On
Colombian Radamel Falcao and Togolese Kossi Agassa are players worth watching. Despite differing reputations on paper, Monaco’s prized recruit, Falcao, is a nominee for the 2013 Ballon d’Or, expressing his gratitude for being among the finalists. On the other hand, Agassa, according to Opta, is touted as the best goalkeeper in Ligue 1, having made the most saves in the championship. Yaya Touré, an African field player, is the sole representative alongside Falcao in the Ballon d’Or nominees.
Recent Performances of the Two Clubs
Reims, under the guidance of Agassa, has shown a penchant for challenging top French teams. Victories against Lille, Lyon, and Marseille, coupled with a draw against Monaco, showcase their prowess. Falcao, Monaco’s leading goal-scorer with eight goals in 11 games, has propelled Claudio Ranieri’s team to the top of the standings, remaining undefeated in Ligue 1.
Composition of the Incoming Squads
Monaco, aspiring to establish itself as a major European club, prioritizes success in every competition, including the Champions League. Despite potential changes, Falcao is expected to start. Reims coach Hubert Fournier plans squad rotation, with Placide taking the place of Agassa to provide rest to key players.
Monaco Squad:
- Goalkeepers: Caillard, Roma, Romero
- Defenders: Abidal, Carvalho, Fabinho, Isimat-Mirin, Lopez, Raggi, Tisserand
- Midfielders: Ferreira-Carrasco, Kondogbia, Obbadi, Ocampos, Pi, Poulsen, Rodriguez, Toulalan
- Forwards: Germain, Martial, Riviere
Reims Squad:
- Goalkeepers: Agassa, Placide
- Defenders: Tacalfred, Weber, Mandi, Fofana, Turan, Glombard
- Midfielders: Ca, Krychowiak, Devaux, Oniangue, Albaek, Ayite, Fortes
- Forwards: Atar, Courtet, Charbonnier, De Preville.
