Lens vs Rennes: Prediction, Team News, Lineups Preview
Lens is set to face Rennes this Saturday at Stade Bollaert-Delelis, aiming to reclaim the top position in Ligue 1. A victory will enable them to temporarily surpass Paris Saint-Germain. Recently, Lens achieved a 1-0 win over Le Havre, solidifying their position in the league.
Match Preview: Lens vs Rennes
Lens is looking to extend their impressive home record as they prepare for this crucial match. After a disappointing defeat to Marseille in matchday 19, Lens bounced back strongly. They secured a clean sheet in their last game, marking their fourth clean sheet in five matches.
- Lens has not conceded a goal in their last five home games in Ligue 1.
- They are on a ten-match winning streak at home across all competitions.
- A victory would mark three consecutive league wins to start the calendar year since their return to the top flight in 2020-21.
Historically, Lens has performed well against Rennes, having points in 11 consecutive meetings. Last season, they won this fixture 1-0. Lens aims to keep their strong form against a struggling Rennes side.
Rennes’ Recent Struggles
Rennes, meanwhile, has hit a rough patch. They have lost their last three matches in all competitions, including a heavy 4-0 defeat to Monaco. This decline has dropped them to sixth place, just above Strasbourg, who are vying for a European spot.
- Rennes has not won a competitive match against Lens since 2014.
- Their away form has worsened, losing two of the last three league games.
- They conceded three goals in their recent Cup exit against Marseille.
Team News and Injuries
Lens faces some injury concerns ahead of the match. Regis Gurtner and Samson Baidoo might not play due to hamstring issues. Jonathan Gradit has a lower leg injury, and Jhoanner Chavez is dealing with a thigh problem.
For Rennes, the main concern is their captain, Valentin Rongier, who is managing a sore calf. They recently sold Jeremy Jacquet to Liverpool for a reported fee of £55 million, but he will remain with Rennes until the summer.
Possible Lineups
| Lens | Rennes |
|---|---|
| Risser | Samba |
| Ganiou | Frankowski |
| Antonio | Ait Boudlal |
| Sarr | Brassier |
| Aguilar | Al-Taamari |
| Sangare | Camara |
| Thomasson | Kamara |
| Udol | Blas |
| Thauvin | Merlin |
| Said | Embolo |
| Edouard | Lepaul |
In conclusion, as Lens prepares to host Rennes, they look to maintain their strong home form in Ligue 1. Given Rennes’ recent decline, Lens is favored to secure a victory, potentially winning 2-0 in this encounter. The match promises to be pivotal for both teams as they pursue their objectives in the league.