Marseille vs Rennes: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
The Coupe de France round of 16 will feature a compelling match between Marseille and Rennes at the Orange Velodrome. This clash represents an opportunity for both teams to further their ambitions in this prestigious tournament. Marseille aims for their 11th Coupe de France title, while Rennes hopes to secure the trophy for the fourth time.
Match Preview: Marseille vs. Rennes
Marseille recently experienced a dip in form, placing them further behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1. The team, managed by Roberto De Zerbi, finished as runners-up last season but has struggled lately, recording only one win from their last four matches. Despite these challenges, they began the Coupe de France strongly, defeating Bourg-Peronnas 6-0 and Bayeux 9-0 in previous rounds.
Fans are eager for a positive outcome as Marseille seeks redemption on their home ground. Although they have lost two of their last three home games, they did manage a recent draw with Paris FC, maintaining an unbeaten domestic streak leading up to this encounter.
Rennes’ Current Form
On the other hand, Rennes is experiencing a better season in 2025-26 compared to the previous year. Under the management of Habib Beye, the team is vying for European competition places in Ligue 1 while also making progress in the Coupe de France. Rennes reached this round after defeating fifth-tier Les Sables 3-0 and fourth-tier US Chantilly 3-1. However, they faced challenges in their last outing and were reliant on a red card received by their opponent.
Rennes’ form has been mixed with a record of just one win against top-flight teams this year. They recently succumbed to a 4-0 defeat against Monaco, highlighting their need for improvement. Nevertheless, the squad boasts a strong away record, suffering only three losses in ten away matches this season.
Team News and Starting Lineups
Several players will influence the lineups for both teams. Marseille will miss left-back Emerson due to a thigh injury. Igor Paixao is expected to step in at left wing-back, while Timothy Weah could occupy the right side. The central defense might see Balerdi, Pavard, and Medina taking the field.
For Rennes, captain Valentin Rongier is recovering from a calf injury but may not start if he is fit. Alidu Seidu could replace Jeremy Jacquet, who is uncertain for the match due to ongoing transfer talks with Liverpool.
Projected Starting Lineups
- Marseille: De Lange; Pavard, Balerdi, Medina; Weah, Hojbjerg, Timber, Paixao; Greenwood, Traore; Gouiri
- Rennes: Samba; Seidu, Boudlal, Brassier; Frankowski, Camara, Cisse, Merlin, Tamari; Lepaul, Embolo
Match Prediction
As both teams face their struggles in 2026, Marseille’s aspiration for a cup victory appears to be a motivating factor. Considering Rennes’ away resilience, this fixture is anticipated to be a closely contested match. Predicted score: Marseille 2, Rennes 1.
