Winless in 12 and on a four-game losing run heading into this encounter, Reims remarkably pulled off another Coupe de France coup, defeating Angers SCO on penalties just as they had done against opponents Monaco in the previous round.
The semi-final berth seemed to inject added impetus into their Japanese front line early on, with Keito Nakamura playing strike partner Junya Itō through on goal, only to be denied as he pulled the trigger by a last ditch Thilo Kehrer challenge.
Since his arrival from SK Sturm Graz in early January, it is fair to say Biereth has become a cult hero, notching seven times in his opening three matches at Stade Louis II. After his glancing effort went just wide moments earlier, it was clear he was not to be deterred, finishing on the volley when meeting Caio Henrique’s cross from the right.
Biereth could have wrapped up his hat-trick in the first half, taking down the ball nonchalantly in the box and slotting home for a second, but then skewing wide when attempting to tap home a far simpler chance from a few yards out.
Forward Oumar Diakité was introduced by Samba Diawara at half time, yet that alteration seemed to backfire almost instantaneously as Biereth again found himself in the right place at the right time, tapping home after Breel Embolo’s effort could only be parried.
Adi Hütter will no doubt be pleased at the realisation he may have one of Europe’s top talents on his hands, with the Dane yet again taking home the match ball.
With the contest all but over, Monaco remained in control of a second period largely lacking in goalmouth action to see out victory over a Reims side struggling for confidence.
Three points moves Monaco up to fourth, leaving opponents Reims without a goal in five and languishing in 15th, only three points above AS Saint-Étienne, who could close the gap over the weekend.
Flashscore Player of the Match: Mika Biereth (AS Monaco)