Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert
On Saturday, May 17, in the final round of Ligue 1, Marseille will host Rennes at home. Kick-off is at 20:00 Central European Time. I’m offering a bet on the winner of this match.
Interesting facts and head-to-head history
- Marseille have won 4 of their last 5 home matches.
- Rennes have lost 2 away games in a row.
- In 4 of Rennes' last 5 matches, more than two goals were scored.
- In round 17 of this season, Marseille defeated Rennes 2-1.
Match preview
Marseille have already accomplished their main goal for this season. Roberto De Zerbi’s side have secured a Champions League spot, sitting in second place before the final round, five points clear of fifth.
In the previous round, Marseille capitalized on their main rivals’ slip-ups. Away from home, the Provençals beat Le Havre 3-1. Before that, Marseille drew 1-1 with Rennes and thrashed Brest 4-1.
Unlike Marseille, Rennes can safely call this season a complete failure. Current head coach Habib Beye is already the third manager of the campaign, and Rennes dropped out of the European qualification race long ago. With 41 points, Rennes sit 11th and cannot climb higher than 10th.
Thanks to the coaching change, Rennes managed to improve their results and avoid a relegation battle in Ligue 1. In the previous game, Rennes beat Nice 2-0, but before that lost to Toulouse (1-2) and Lyon (1-4). Over the last five rounds, Rennes have picked up 9 points.
Probable line-ups
- Marseille: Rulli; Murillo, Balerdi, Cornelius, Merlin; Rongier, Højbjerg, Rabiot; Greenwood, Gouiri, Lowe
- Rennes: Samba; Assignon, Rouault, Brassier, Truffert; Koné, Fofana, James; Al-Taamari, Kalimuendo, Blas
Marseille vs Rennes prediction
Rennes have struggled away from home this season, while Marseille will be eager to seal second place in front of their home fans. I’m backing the hosts to win this one.
