Lens edge past Rennes 1-0 in Ligue 1 : Sang et Or maintain perfect home record

RC Lens secured a vital 1-0 victory over Stade Rennais at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis on Saturday, maintaining their perfect home record and climbing closer to European spots in the Ligue 1 standings. The hard-fought win, sealed by Wesley Saïd’s decisive goal, sees the Sang et Or build on their recent momentum following their triumph at Marseille with the same scoreline.

In Short

Lens secures narrow victory against Rennes in tactical battle

In a match characterized by tight defensive organization and tactical awareness, RC Lens emerged victorious with a slender 1-0 win over Stade Rennais. The home side capitalized on a set-piece opportunity, with Wesley Saïd making the difference in what proved to be a cagey affair between two teams with contrasting ambitions this season.

The victory propels Lens to within just three points of Lyon, who currently occupy sixth position in the Ligue 1 table. This positioning reflects their remarkable recovery after a challenging start to the season, with their home form becoming the foundation of their push for European qualification. Statistical models now give Lens a significantly improved chance of securing European football next season.

Rennes, meanwhile, continue to look nervously over their shoulders in 12th place. The Breton side has struggled for consistency this season, despite showing flashes of their technical quality. Their previous resurgence, when they defeated Reims in a crucial Ligue 1 clash, seems a distant memory as they failed to convert possession into meaningful chances at Bollaert.

The match statistics revealed a balanced encounter with both teams registering similar shooting numbers. Lens recorded 9 shots with 4 on target, while Rennes managed 10 attempts with 4 testing Lens goalkeeper Ryan. However, it was the clinical edge in front of goal that separated the sides on this occasion.

Defensive solidity powers Lens to another clean sheet

Interim manager Habib Beye’s defensive organization deserves significant credit for Lens’ third consecutive clean sheet across all competitions. Jonathan Gradit played a pivotal role before being substituted late in the game for Malang Sarr, with the defender showing tremendous commitment by blocking a dangerous Rennes attempt in the 78th minute.

The Lens backline demonstrated remarkable resilience particularly during the final twenty minutes when Rennes intensified their efforts to equalize. Goalkeeper Ryan proved decisive in the 92nd minute, making a critical save from Kazeem Olaigbe’s powerful strike after the Belgian winger, who had just entered the pitch, created space for himself in the box.

The atmosphere at Bollaert-Delelis played its part in the victory, with the passionate home support lifting the team during difficult moments. In the 77th minute, as the match intensity dropped momentarily, the iconic “Les Corons” anthem echoed around the stadium, with fans proudly waving their scarves in a display of unwavering support.

This defensive performance continues a pattern that advanced analytical models had predicted, with Lens’ defensive metrics ranking among the strongest in the league since January. Their ability to manage games and protect leads has become their signature trait in 2025.

Late drama as Rennes push for equalizer

The final stages of the match produced an increase in tension as Rennes threw everything at securing an equalizer. In the 84th minute, a corner kick led to a dangerous situation as Cissé delivered a cross to the back post where Faye was inches away from connecting with the ball, causing significant concern among the home supporters.

Rennes’ technical quality began to shine through as they dominated possession in the closing stages, though Lens remained disciplined in their defensive shape. The introduction of Kazeem Olaigbe for Azor Matusiwa in the closing minutes highlighted Rennes’ desperate search for an attacking breakthrough.

The Belgian winger almost made an immediate impact in the 92nd minute with a powerful strike that required Ryan’s full attention. Moments later, in the 97th minute, Olaigbe went down in the box after contact with Thomasson, but referee waved play on as the Rennes player made no appeal for a penalty.

Lens made strategic substitutions to counter Rennes’ growing pressure, with goalscorer Wesley Saïd making way for Andy Diouf to strengthen the midfield. This tactical adjustment proved effective as it helped the home side maintain their shape and see out the seven minutes of added time.

The victory continues Lens’ impressive form at Bollaert-Delelis, where they have created a fortress this season. Fans looking forward to upcoming fixtures can follow live coverage of Ligue 1 matchday 24 featuring Montpellier vs Rennes to monitor how both teams progress in their respective campaigns.

As the final whistle blew after 97 minutes of intense action, the jubilant Lens supporters celebrated a victory that significantly enhances their European ambitions, while Rennes return to Brittany knowing they must improve their efficiency in front of goal to climb away from the lower half of the table.