Lorient vs Rennes
Ligue 1
Sunday
22nd October 2023
Stade du Moustoir
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Ligue 1 gameweek 9 fixture between Lorient and Rennes.
Lorient vs Rennes: Preview
Lorient form analysis
Les Merlus’ recent Ligue 1 matches demonstrate a topsy-turvy team capable of scoring goals but also conceding heavily at times. They were comfortably beaten 0-3 away at Le Havre to start this spell. But then earned a credible 2-2 home draw with Monaco, twice taking the lead before being pegged back. Inconsistency returned in a thrilling 3-5 home loss to Nantes, despite goals from Tosin, Faivre and an own goal briefly giving them hope. Lorient’s defensive issues persisted in a 0-3 home defeat to Montpellier. Most recently though, they earned an entertaining 3-3 away draw at Lyon, with goals from Kroupi (2) and Yongwa in a spirited display.
Overall, Lorient have been lively going forward thanks to the likes of Ouattara and Kroupi. But they remain far too open defensively, conceding 14 goals across these 5 matches. If coach Régis Le Bris can address these defensive weaknesses, Lorient have sufficient attacking threat to trouble most teams. However, improving their defensive record is vital if they are to push up from their current relegation battle this season.
Rennes form analysis
Rennes’ recent Ligue 1 results have been inconsistent, mixing determined performances with disappointing defeats. They started slowly, drawing 0-0 away at Brest. A thrilling 2-2 home draw with Lille followed, fighting back through Assignon and Salah after trailing 2-0. Rennes then earned a solid 0-0 away draw at Montpellier. They returned to winning ways by beating local rivals Nantes 3-1, powered by goals from Bourigeaud, Doué and Kalimuendo. However, defensive issues resurfaced in Rennes’ last game as they lost 1-3 at home to champions PSG.
Overall, coach Bruno Genesio seems to have added more productivity going forward with the likes of Gouiri impressing. But problems in defence have undermined Rennes, conceding at least twice in 3 of these 5 matches. If Genesio can strike the right balance between attack and defence, Rennes have the quality to push for European qualification again. But they need to improve defensive concentration and translate dominance into wins.
