Struggling Rennes is set to host a resurgent Reims side at Roazhon Park in Ligue 1 on Sunday.
Match Preview
Rennes recently suffered a loss against Lyon, leading to Bruno Genesio stepping down as manager.
With Julien Stephan returning for a second spell, Rennes hopes to recover from a dismal start to the season, placing them just one point above the relegation places.
Having garnered only two wins in their opening 12 matches, Rennes sits in 13th place. The defeat to Lyon was worrying, considering Lyon’s poor performance this season.
However, Ligue 1’s unpredictable nature means Rennes’ season could swing either way.
The team has struggled with discipline, receiving red cards in their last three matches, despite a win against Panathinaikos.
For Rennes, improving defensively, especially at home where they’ve not kept a clean sheet this season, becomes a priority under Stephan’s charge.
Reims, previously faltering towards the end of the last season, is now displaying an upturn in form under Will Still. They are positioned just outside the Champions League places, level on points with Lille.
Reims’ away form has been impressive, contributing significantly to their success.
They aim to bounce back after a 3-0 home defeat against Paris Saint-Germain, where Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick sealed their fate.
Rennes Ligue 1 form: W L L D L L
Rennes form (all competitions): L W D L W L
Reims Ligue 1 form: W L D W W L
Team News
Rennes will miss two players due to suspension: Warmed Omari and Guela Doue. However, Lorenz Assignon’s return from suspension is expected.
Reims might miss Ibrahim Diakite due to an ankle injury, while Keito Nakamura remains sidelined with a sprained ankle. Teddy Teuma is set to return after featuring for Malta against England.
Possible Lineups
Rennes possible starting lineup:(4-4-2)
Mandanda;
Assignon, Theate, Belocian, Truffert;
Blas, Bourigeaud, Matic, Le Fee;
Salah, Terrier
Reims possible starting lineup:(3-5-2)
Diouf;
Agbadou, Okumu, Abdelhamid;
Foket, Matusiwa, Munetsi, Teuma, De Smet;
Ito, Daramy
Prediction: Rennes 1-1 Reims
Rennes, despite often finishing above Reims, has found them challenging, winning only twice in their last ten meetings.
Considering the form book, a similar result might unfold, with Reims also confident of their chances despite Rennes’ potential bounce under a new manager.
