Rennes – Lorient : Preview & Prediction
Much optimism surrounds Rennes heading into this season after another successful league campaign last year saw them finish just outside the Champions League places in fourth place — their fourth top-six result in the last five seasons. Their record of 66 points, 20 home wins and 82 goals scored was their best result in a top flight season, setting a solid platform for coach Bruno Génésio to continue building the foundations of this project.
However, the Red and Blacks have suffered some departures, losing inspirational center back Nayef Aguerd, although the signing of Athur Theate and the experienced Steve Mandanda ensures security in defense. Getting their campaign underway against Lorient may be just what Rennes need, given that they are unbeaten in their last six matches played against this opponent (G5, E1) — preventing the opposition from scoring in all five wins.
As for Lorient, most analysts are pointing to another long campaign aimed at avoiding relegation, and the fact that they have finished 16th in the previous two seasons since their promotion only adds weight to that analysis. An exodus of veterans in the summer allowed younger players to break into the first team, meaning a more energetic Lorient side is expected to grace Ligue 1 this campaign, especially as only two of their outfield players are over the age of 30.
Starting the season with an away game will not inspire confidence in ‘Les Merlus’ fans, with a total of 12 points won away from home last season — the lowest in the league. On a positive note, their new coach knows all about traveling to Rennes, as all 32 of Régis Le Bris’ Ligue 1 appearances were with the eastern Brittany club.
Players to watch: Rennes’ top scorer last season, Martin Terrier, has scored three goals in four league games against Lorient, whose Terem Moffi will be looking to get his side off to a good start, having scored his side’s first goal in six of their seven games where he scored in last season’s campaign.
Key stat: Rennes opened the scoring in 16 of their 19 home games last season (G14, E1, P1) — tops in the league.
Rennes – Lorient : Betting Tips
Rennes – Win Odds: 1.45
