South American duo power Monaco to 2-1 home win

Last season's finalists Monaco took a big step towards the knockout stages of the Champions League with a 2-1 victory over Olympiakos Piraeus in Group A on Tuesday.

The home side made a flying start with Argentina striker Javier Saviola and Uruguay's Ernesto Chevanton scoring two goals in the first 10 minutes of a lively match.

Didier Deschamps' side lead the group with six points from three games after Liverpool were held to a goalless draw by Deportivo Coruna at Anfield. Both Liverpool and Olimpiakos are on four points.

However, Olympiakos never gave up and Cyprus forward Yiannis Okkas reduced the scoring on the hour from close range.

"In the first half, we were able to create movement, and they were in danger," said Deschamps.

"It was harder after the break as we felt tired, so we were unable to put any more pressure on them, but the most important thing is victory."

"I still say this Greek side is the best we've met so far in the competition which means the return game will be very tough."

Olympiakos looked at first as though they were never going to recover from a shaky start.

The hosts opened the scoring after only two minutes when Saviola slalomed through the Greek defence before shooting past goalkeeper Antonis Nikopolidis.

Eight minutes later, Chevanton, back from injury, scored his first goal in the competition with a fine curling shoot from the edge of the box to double the tally.

Olympiakos tried to push forward but Monaco keeper Flavio Roma was very careful on his line, tipping a Rivaldo effort just over his crossbar.

Shortly after the interval, Deschamps brought on defensive midfielder Diego Perez for compatriot Chevanton.

As a result, Olympiakos took control of the game and reduced the arrears after 60 minutes with Okkas, alone inside the box, giving Roma no chance.

Monaco played even more defensively when Czech midfielder Jaroslav Plasil replaced a tired Saviola after 75 minutes.

Deschamps's bet paid off for team from the principality as Monaco's back four held firm against a strong late challenge from the visitors' forwards.