Rennes slows down OM and moves closer to Europe

Three days after qualifying for the Europa League against Villarreal, Olympique de Marseille presented themselves at Roazhon Park, Sunday March 17, with the objective of getting closer to the Top 5 and, above all, to Europe. A victory, and they would be just one point away from the Champions League. All in a particularly busy schedule for the Marseillais, who completed their 7th match in 24 days this Sunday. Facing them, Rennais who had not won in the Championship for three matches and who, in the event of victory, could come back to match their opponent.

In a fairly lively start to the game, it was finally Rennes who took the advantage through Martin Terrier, served in the middle by Amine Gouiri, and who deceived Pau Lopez with a right strike for his 8th goal of the season (21st, 1-0). And then, as a symbol to celebrate his 300th appearance in the red and black jersey – 301st in reality, but the round count fell on the last trip to Lille – it was Benjamin Bourigeaud who gave his team the break from the penalty spot (78th, 2-0).

Despite a few chances, including a free kick from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang deflected off the post in the second half, OM did little to worry the Bretons. This is Jean-Louis Gasset’s first defeat in the championship since his arrival on the bench. In the standings, the Phocéens (7th) nevertheless remain ahead of Julien Stéphan’s men (8th) on goal difference.