In a battle between top-three aspirants in Ligue 1, Rennes will host Lens at Roazhon Park on Sunday. While the hosts started this round of fixtures in 5th place with 50 points from 28 matches, the visitors are in 3rd place with 57 points from the same number of games. Rennes created a minor stutter in the entire league when they defeated Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 to go to the international break on a high. Yet, the challenge is to find consistency and keep staying in the top-three race as the two teams directly below – Lille and Nice aren’t too far from overtaking their tally. Thankfully, they have won three of their last five league matches now, losing just once. Rennes have been impressive at home this season losing only three and winning 11 of their home league matches. Two of those losses have come from their last three home matches and that could be a challenge to avoid another loss.
Lens are looking for a win themselves as they are only two points behind second-placed Marseille but just three ahead of fourth-placed Monaco. Recent form suggests they should travel confidently as Lens have been unbeaten in five league matches, winning three and drawing two. It is their defensive skill that shines throughout as Lens have conceded the lowest number of goals in Ligue 1 so far – just 21. While all this points to an exciting team looking to stamp its authority, their away form leaves a lot to be desired. Lens have won a single game across its last seven away league games although on the flip side, they have lost only once.