As the new year dawns, Nice and Rennes will renew their Ligue 1 rivalry at the Allianz Riviera on Friday. The two sides have faced off in their first match of the calendar year for the past three seasons, with Rennes emerging victorious in the previous two encounters.
Currently occupying sixth place, Nice will be aiming to extend their unbeaten home record in the French top flight.
Franck Haise’s men narrowly avoided an embarrassing Coupe de France exit against National 3 side Corte just before the winter break, requiring penalties to progress after going a man down.
In their most recent league outing, Nice twice surrendered a one-goal lead to draw 2-2 with bottom-placed Montpellier.
Rennes, on the other hand, sit 12th in the Ligue 1 standings, only four points clear of the relegation zone. The Breton club sacked manager Julien Stephan earlier in the season, with Jorge Sampaoli now at the helm.
Sampaoli has overseen three wins in his first five matches, including a 2-0 triumph over Bordeaux in the Coupe de France.
Team News
Nice will be without several key players due to injury, including top scorer Terem Moffi, midfielder Morgan Sanson, and veteran defender Dante.
Rennes, meanwhile, are set to be without the services of Alidu Seidu, who is sidelined with an ACL injury.
Possible Lineups
Nice: (4-3-3)
Bulka;
Clauss, Rosario, Bombito, Bard;
Bouanani, Boudaoui, Ndombele;
Laborde, Guessand, Diop
Rennes: (3-4-3)
Mandanda;
Hateboer, Ostigard, Truffert;
Assignon, James, Matusiwa, Nagida;
Blas, Gouiri, Kalimuendo
Given Nice’s impressive home form and Rennes’ struggles on the road, the hosts are expected to emerge victorious in this encounter. A tight, open game is anticipated, with Nice edging out.
