Monaco United played one of the most important matches in the team’s history on 16 May in the final of the Mediterranean Cup against Olympique de Marseille’s reserve team in Cagnes-sur-Mer. The highly anticipated gala match pitted the Monegasque underdogs against a Marseille team that was recently crowned regional champions. Marseille’s team was also reinforced by several players who usually play with OM’s first team in the Arkema Première Ligue.
“This final reflects everything that football is about: an intense match, good play, chances, and a true balance between two excellent teams,” said coach Marco Simone. The Former AS Monaco and AC Milan striker, Marco Simone is both the president and coach of Monaco United FC.
Even before kickoff, the final already held historic significance. Monaco United became the first district club in the history of the Mediterranean Cup to reach this stage of the competition, a remarkable achievement for the players.
True to their playing philosophy, the Monegasques displayed incredible skill from the opening minutes, performing with intensity, style, and personality. In an atmosphere fuelled by a huge crowd gathered for the prestigious final, the two teams engaged in a high-level battle. Despite several chances for Monaco, Olympique de Marseille scored first after fifteen minutes to take the lead (1-0).
Far from being discouraged, Monaco went back on the attack and at the half-hour mark, a goal by Sarah Lakhssassi tied the game (1-1). Just before halftime, Marseille managed to regain the lead with another goal, giving them a 2-1 advantage.
After halftime, the Monegasques dominated possession, launched attack after attack, and created several chances. The highlight of the match arrived thanks to Alicia Sweye. The defender produced an exceptional individual effort, beating three players before unleashing a magnificent shot that sailed under the Marseille crossbar. The stunning goal brought the game to a 2-2 tie.
The match ended with a nail-biting penalty shootout. Despite goals from Marina Makanza and Manon Fray, two missed penalties allowed Olympique de Marseille to win the 2026 Mediterranean Cup.
“We undoubtedly deserved more given our performance, but we must commend Marseille’s fighting spirit. Despite the disappointment, we represented the club and the district with pride. Our goal was to reach this stage, and we took this competition very seriously, as we do all cup competitions. I’m still satisfied because the fans saw a great match and a great Monaco United team,” said Marco Simone.
Monaco United’s run in this competition is historic and marks a significant turning point for women’s football in the Principality. Reaching the final of such a prestigious competition as a district club is an exceptional achievement, especially for such a young team, launched in 2025.
Now, they must quickly move on. A crucial match awaits Monaco United this weekend with the promotion playoffs in the Regional league against Étoile d’Aubune.
“Whether we win or lose, our response remains the same: to keep working and moving forward. In this final, the team demonstrated the identity we’ve built since the beginning of the season, and it’s this collective strength that will help us grow and progress,” said Marco Simone.
The first leg will be played Sunday 24 May at 3:00 PM at the Didier-Deschamps Stadium in Cap-d’Ail. The match will be an opportunity to gain an early advantage and approach the second leg with confidence, aiming for promotion to the next level.
