Here we are. After more than 3 weeks of absence, Ligue 1 returns to the great delight of the fans. Rennes vs. OGC Nice is THE match not to be missed during this 18th day.
Having become one of the best defenses in Europe under the era of Francesco Farioli (9 goals conceded), the runner-up to PSG is severely lacking in offensive creativity. With 19 goals scored so far, the attack struggles to make a difference and often wins with the bare minimum. The management has fully realized this and did not hesitate to make moves during this winter transfer window: Mohamed Ali Cho, the former striker of Real Sociedad, was transferred to Nice this week!
The 19-year-old will indeed be in the Gym’s squad this Saturday at Roazhon Park to face Stade Rennais. Watch out for the Red and Black, who have achieved two convincing victories away against Clermont (1-3) and Guingamp (0-2) before the break, despite their not-so-flattering 10th place standing.
Moffi definitely present
Besides the return of Bouanani, it is Aliou Baldé, also recovered from an injury contracted at Le Havre, who returns to the squad. Khephren Thuram (knee), Sofiane Diop (foot), and Romain Perraud (thigh) are again absent for this trip to Brittany. Jean-Clair Todibo, on the other hand, is serving his third and final match of suspension.
Boudaoui, Atal, and Boga are involved with their respective national teams in preparation for the AFCON (Africa Cup of Nations) which will take place from January 13 to February 11, and will not be in the squad. It should be noted that Terem Moffi, called up this week with Nigeria, will only join his national team on Sunday and will indeed be on the pitch Saturday evening with the Eagles.
Probable lineups
Rennes: Mandanda – G. Doué, Belocian, Theate, Truffert – Bourigeaud, Le Fée, Santamaria, Blas – Terrier, Kalimuendo
Nice: Bulka – Lotomba, Mendy, Dante, Bard – Sanson, Ndayishimiye, Rosario – Laborde, Moffi, Claude-Maurice
The match will be broadcast live this Saturday from 9:00 PM.
