Monaco host Lens in Ligue 1 opener as both sides seek momentum

AS Monaco host RC Lens in the opening match of the fifth round of Ligue 1 on Friday, 18 September 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 18:45 GMT at the Stade Louis-II.

The match will be broadcast by DAZN and Canal+ Foot in France, and by Canal+ Sport 1 and SuperSport in other territories.

Monaco hold recent advantage

The fixture has developed into one of Ligue 1’s more unpredictable contests, with recent meetings regularly producing open football and plenty of goals.

Across the last five league encounters between the sides, Monaco have won three times, compared with one victory for Lens, while the other match ended in a draw. Monaco have also won the clubs’ last two meetings, with both matches finishing 3-2.

Monaco began the season positively and followed an impressive 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain at the start of September with a 1-1 draw against Strasbourg.

The hosts have been encouraged by the form of Paris Brunner and Aleksandr Golovin. Their attacking approach has made them a difficult opponent and they will look to maintain that momentum at home.

Lens, meanwhile, have made an inconsistent start to their league campaign. They were beaten 1-0 by Lorient at Bollaert before being held to a 2-2 draw by Le Mans in the league.

Pierre Sage’s side did, however, respond in Europe by beating Slavia Prague 3-2 in the Champions League. That result showed Lens can raise their performance level for important occasions, despite their mixed domestic form.

Monaco slight favourites

Monaco go into the match as narrow favourites, helped by home advantage, their attacking strength and the confidence gained from their win over Paris Saint-Germain.

Lens remain capable of causing problems, but their early-season performances suggest they are still finding their rhythm in Ligue 1. The prediction is therefore for a close Monaco victory.

The Africafoot prediction is Monaco to win 1-0.

The match betting odds listed by 1xbet have Monaco at 2.20 to win, with the draw priced at 3.60 and a Lens victory at 2.80.