Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu named Man of the Match in Monaco’s Champions League draw with Pafos

Ghana defender Mohammed Salisu delivered a commanding performance for AS Monaco in their 2-2 UEFA Champions League draw against Greek champions Pafos, earning the Man of the Match award despite a late own goal that denied his side victory.

Salisu, who played the full ninety minutes, stood out as Monaco’s most reliable figure on the night. His positioning, interceptions and composure under pressure impressed the UEFA Technical Observer, who awarded him the highest rating of the match.

Even after the unfortunate deflection that led to Pafos’ late equaliser, the Ghanaian centre-back remained one of the most influential players on the pitch.

Monaco began the encounter with confidence, taking the lead inside five minutes when Takumi Minamino finished off a swift move. Pafos found their response shortly after, with former Chelsea defender David Luiz rising above the defence to head home a corner.

The French side restored their advantage through Folarin Balogun, who capitalised on a costly error from goalkeeper Neofytos Michail.

The match remained open and tense until the closing moments, when Ivan Sunjic struck the crossbar and the rebound bounced off Salisu and into the net.

The draw leaves both teams level on points, each having recorded one win, three draws and one defeat in the Champions League group stage so far.

Despite the late twist, Salisu’s display stood out, reaffirming his status as one of Monaco’s most dependable performers this season.