Stade Rennes on January 3, 2025, presents an intriguing clash between two teams with contrasting fortunes. Nice currently occupies the sixth position in the league table and remains unbeaten at home, boasting a nine-game scoring streak . Conversely, Rennes sits lower at twelfth place and has struggled significantly in away fixtures, having lost their last three matches. This dichotomy of form is crucial as both teams vie for points to enhance their standings as the season progresses.
OGC Nice, currently occupying 6th place in the Ligue 1 standings, find themselves in a tightly contested battle for a spot in the top four. With 24 points amassed from 15 matches, their campaign has been a blend of resilience and inconsistency, featuring six wins, six draws, and three losses. Their positive goal difference of +9 reflects their solid defensive and attacking displays, though they have lacked the cutting edge to secure more victories.
Rennes, Nice will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and secure crucial three points. A win could propel them into the top four, reinforcing their ambitions for European qualification. With their sights set on climbing the table, Nice will need to deliver a cohesive and determined performance to overcome a challenging opponent in Rennes.
Nice possible starting lineup: Bulka; Clauss, Rosario, Bombito, Bard; Bouanani, Boudaoui, Ndombele; Laborde, Guessand, Diop
Rennes possible starting lineup: Mandanda; Hateboer, Ostigard, Truffert; Assignon, James, Matusiwa, Nagida; Blas, Gouiri; Kalimuendo
Nice plays a proactive style of football, but they haven't been as effective as Haise's Lens in recent seasons. However, they are well-positioned to advance after the winter break. Rennes has delivered impressive performances under Jorge Sampaoli, and they aim to build on that as they visit the Allianz Riviera. An entertaining match is anticipated, with a good chance of both teams scoring.
Watch free live stream here
Recent managerial changes have influenced Rennes' performance; under new management from Jorge Sampaoli, they have achieved three victories from five attempts . Despite this improvement, their away record remains a significant concern. In contrast, Nice's home advantage cannot be understated. Their consistent performance on familiar turf makes them favorites heading into this encounter . Predictions indicate a potential victory for Nice with a suggested scoreline of 2-1 due to these factors.
In terms of team news and lineups, injuries may play a critical role in determining the outcome. Notably for Nice, key players such as Dante and Moffi are reportedly sidelined . The uncertainty surrounding several other players—Abdelmonem, Abdi, Mendy—could impact their overall strategy on match day. While specific details about Rennes' lineup remain unspecified in current analyses , it is evident that managing player fitness will be pivotal for both teams entering this high-stakes fixture.
 Read more
Valencia vs. Real Madrid - FREE online and confirmed lineups Scottish Premiership : St Johnstone vs. Hibernian - prediction, free online , lineupsSarah H
Also on site :