Ghanaian defender Mohammed Salisu earned Man of the Match honors following a standout performance in AS Monaco’s 2-2 UEFA Champions League draw against Cypriot side Pafos on Wednesday.
Despite conceding a late own goal that earned the hosts a point, Salisu topped the UEFA Technical Observer ratings following a dominant 90-minute display. The 26-year-old completed a game-high 54 passes and recorded 14 key defensive actions, expertly marshaling Monaco’s back line throughout the match.
Monaco drew first blood after just five minutes when Takumi Minamino calmly finished a precise attack. However, Pafos responded 13 minutes later, with former Chelsea defender David Luiz powering in a header from a corner to level the score.
The French side regained the lead shortly after, as Folarin Balogun capitalized on a mistake from Pafos goalkeeper Neofytos Michail to slot home.
Pafos snatched a dramatic late equalizer in the 88th minute when Ivan Sunjic’s effort struck the bar and deflected off Salisu into the net, leaving Monaco to settle for a draw.
Despite the late setback, Salisu’s performance stood out, highlighting his composure and leadership in defense for Monaco.
