Rennes vs Maccabi Haifa
UEFA Europa League
Group F
Thursday
21st September 2023
Stade de la Route-de-Lorient
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of matchday 1 of the UEFA Europa League fixture between Rennes and Maccabi Haifa.
Rennes vs Maccabi Haifa: Preview
Rennes form analysis
SRFC began impressively by hammering Metz 5-1 at home on the opening weekend. Kalimuendo, Gouiri, Doku and a Salah double secured a dominant victory after initially going behind.
However, their form then dipped as Rennes were held to a 1-1 away draw by Lens despite leading through Bourigeaud’s penalty. They also struggled in a 2-2 home draw against Ligue 2’s Le Havre in the French Cup second round.
Rennes’ inconsistencies continued last time out as they were held to a 0-0 home draw by Brest in another underwhelming attacking display lacking in clear-cut chances.
Overall, it’s been an up and down spell for Rennes as they struggle for consistency early on this season. Their opening day thrashing of Metz showed their potential but replicating that form has proven difficult. Improving their productivity in attack is crucial for Rennes.
Maccabi Haifa form analysis
Maccabi Haifa settled for a 0-0 home draw against Young Boys in the first leg of their Champions League playoff tie. They produced a solid, organized display to earn a credible draw.
However, Haifa were then comfortably beaten 0-3 away in Switzerland, conceding in each half to exit the Champions League.
Domestically, their form has been mixed. Haifa edged past Hapoel Jerusalem 1-2 away thanks to goals from Seck and Sabia either side of halftime.
But they then suffered disappointment last time out, losing 2-3 away at Maccabi Petah Tikva after equalizing twice late on through Refaelov and Sabia.
Overall, it’s been an up and down spell for Haifa as they come to terms with missing out on the Champions League group stage. Maintaining intensity for 90 minutes is crucial – they have shown quality in patches but struggle to control games consistently.
