Rennes aim to strengthen dominance against Angers

Stade Rennais F.C. vs. Angers SCO kicks off at 20:05 [GMT+1] on Saturday, April 11, at Roazhon Park.

Rennes have emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most improved sides since the appointment of Franck Haise in mid-February, and their recent surge [WWLDW] has reignited hopes of securing a UEFA Champions League place. A thrilling 4-3 victory over Brest last weekend kept that dream firmly alive, as the Rennais prepare to host Angers in another crucial clash. Two months ago, the Red and Blacks were 11 points adrift of third place, but a remarkable turnaround now sees them just three points shy of the automatic Champions League spots. Haise’s men begin the round in seventh place with 47 points [13W, 8D, 7L], thanks largely to an impressive run of form that has yielded five wins from their last seven league outings [5W, 1D, 1L]. Only Monaco and Lille have collected more points in that period. History strongly favours the Rennais in this fixture. They are unbeaten in their last six meetings with Angers across all competitions [5W, 1D, 0L] and have scored in each of their 27 home top-flight matches against the visitors. That remarkable streak represents the highest number of home games against a single opponent in which a team has found the net every time in French top-flight history. A 4—3—3 formation with Esteban Lepaul, Breel Embolo and Ludovic Blas in attack is expected against Angers. Rennes’ squad remains relatively healthy heading into the contest. Jérémy Jacquet is still sidelined following surgery, while Arnaud Nordin is considered a doubt.

While Rennes are charging toward the European places, Angers appear to be limping toward the finish line, albeit from a relatively safe position [LWLLD]. Alexandre Dujeux’s side have managed just one win in their last seven league matches [1W, 1D, 5L], with their most recent outing producing a goalless draw against Lyon. Despite that underwhelming run, Les Scoïstes sit 12th in the table with 33 points [9W, 6D, 13L] and hold a comfortable 10-point cushion above the relegation zone. Historically, no team with such an advantage at this stage of a Ligue 1 season has gone down, which should offer reassurance as the campaign approaches its conclusion. However, their away form remains concerning. Angers have suffered four defeats in their last six league road trips [1W, 1D, 4L], and they could face additional selection problems with Melvin Zinga, Emmanuel Biumla, and Carlens Arcus all doubts for the trip to Rennes. Lanroy Machine is expected at the attacking end of Angers’ 4—2—3—1 setup.