OL-Rennes, it’s a first final in Ligue 1 for the two teams. In Brittany, the efficiency of the defense led by Greif and Niakhaté impresses.
Midway through the season, when OL was dreaming of a podium finish and Lens of the French championship title, everyone was talking about the 34th matchday clash between the two teams at the Groupama Stadium. But to keep believing in this goal, Lyon will have to pass a first major test this Sunday when they host Rennes. A clash between two very in-form teams that will definitely determine who will be the big winner or the big loser in the race for Champions League places.
Lyon’s defense impresses against Rennes
On Rennes’ side, everyone is aware that this is a European match ahead of time. But what almost worries Franck Haise’s team the most is the defensive solidity of a Lyon rearguard that is very difficult to break down. This is highlighted by Quentin Merlin in a press conference when analyzing Sunday’s match in Lyon.
“It’s a big team with a lot of quality in defense in particular. It will be a match with a lot of intensity and duels, an important balance of power. It’s a team that likes to have the ball, like us. We will need to be effective in both penalty areas. We have trained to cause them problems. We have analyzed them well and we are determined to impose ourselves there,”
said the former Nantes player, well aware that it could be crucial for his team to trouble the Lyon defense. Because if OL’s attack, led by Corentin Tolisso and Endrick, is less fearsome, it could also be a key factor as Stade Rennais has made a habit of conceding many chances in each match, especially since the serious injury to their young leader Jérémy Jacquet.
