Lyon vs Rennes prediction: match preview and lineups
On Sunday, May 3, the spotlight will be on the Lyon stadium as it hosts the marquee fixture of Ligue 1’s Matchday 32. Olympique Lyon welcome Rennes in a clash that could prove decisive in the race for Champions League qualification next season.
Match preview
Lyon, under the guidance of Paulo Fonseca, are playing some of the most entertaining football in France. The team has cemented its place in third in the table and is riding a four-game unbeaten streak. The breakout star of the season has been young striker Endrick, who’s tallied 10 goal contributions in just 13 appearances for the club. Lyon traditionally thrive at home, with the raucous support in the stands fueling their relentless pressing for the full 90 minutes.
Rennes currently sit fifth and are fiercely battling for a European spot. Franck Haise’s side are renowned for their tactical flexibility and their lightning-fast transitions from defense to attack, exploiting the pace of their wingers. However, on the road against direct rivals, the Red and Blacks have often struggled with defensive consistency. Nonetheless, Rennes come into this game on the back of four consecutive wins and will be eager to keep their momentum alive.
Tactically, fans can expect a showdown between Lyon’s possession-based approach and Rennes’ counter-attacking style. Fonseca’s men are sure to impose their dominance at home and will look to translate that into a positive result.
Lyon are in peak psychological and physical condition right now. The motivation to return to the Champions League is driving the team forward. Rennes are a tough opponent, adept at shutting up shop, but the outcome could hinge on their ability to contain Lyon’s rapid wide players.
Probable lineups
Lyon: Greif – Tagliafico, Mata, Niakhate, Maitland-Niles – Vinicius, Tolisso, Mangala, Morton – Endrick, Yaremchuk
Rennes: Samba – Seidu, Boudlal, Brassier, Merlin – Blas, Rongier, Camara, Al-Taamari – Embolo, Lepaul
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the last five meetings, Lyon have won twice while Rennes have claimed three victories
- Lyon are unbeaten in four games: three wins and one draw
- Rennes have won four matches in a row, conceding in three of those
Prediction
Both teams have their defensive frailties but are electric going forward. My prediction: over 2.5 goals at 1.66
