Paris, Dec 6 (IANS): Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov's brace helped last season's Ligue 1 runner-up Monaco claim a 2-0 win against Toulouse.

The 33-year-old Bulgarian's strike with the outside of his boot gave Monaco a first-half lead just before the break Friday, reports Xinhua.

Berbatov scored again in the 77th minute from the spot as Monaco full-back Fabinho burst into the area before being halted by a clumsy challenge from Dragos Grigore.

With the victory, the principality club moves closer to Ligue 1's frontrunners and enjoy a provisional seventh place before remaining fixtures of the French top-flight's 17th round.

It's also a welcome warm-up for Monaco ahead of their decisive Champions League match against Russia's Zenit St Petersburg Tuesday with Leonardo Jardim's side needing just a draw to make it to the knockout stage.

Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain will play Nantes at home Saturday, trying to clinch the top spot before league leaders Marseille host Metz Sunday.