The race for the top eight in the Champions League continues to intensify after Monaco recorded a 1-0 win over Aston Villa to move level on points with Unai Emery's team.
Villa now sit precariously in seventh place, buoyed by their superior goal difference alone, having previously avoided the knockout stages of the play-off.
The two teams were eight places apart heading into the match at the Stade Louis II, but this was quickly reduced to two places either side of the top eight, thanks to Wilfried Singo's header in the opening ten minutes.
Tyrone Mings' unforced error led to a corner for the hosts and despite a stunning save from Emiliano Martinez to initially deny Thilo Kehrer, the Argentine goalkeeper could do nothing on the rebound.
His counterpart at the other end, Radoslaw Majecki, also played his part in ensuring the lead remained intact in the build-up to half-time by crossing well to the right and tipping Ollie Watkins' only chance on the half around the post.
Even the introduction of Jhon Duran from the bench in the 56th minute could not revive Villa. The visitors posed little threat after the restart, apart from Matty Cash's effort that was pulled wide.
For Monaco it was another win against an English team on home soil, increasing their chances of automatic progression.
They have now won five of their last six home games against Premier League opposition, with Villa joining Chelsea. Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester City on the list of victims.
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