Rennes vs Le Havre Prediction & Betting Tips (18 January)

The fast period of Stade Rennais continues after its victory against Chantilly N2; 1-3 confirming its qualification for the round of 16 of the Coupe de France. Authors of a very big blow in Lille with a 0-2 victory at the start of the year, Habib Beye's players have won 8 of their last 9 matches in all competitions and are close to the top 5 in the Championship. Successes against Strasbourg 4-1, Monaco 4-1 and Brest 3-1 fueled the Rennes harvest that began two and a half months ago. A series of 6 games without a win in Ligue 1: 3 draws, 3 defeats and one elimination upon entry into the Coupe de France, against Amiens L2; 0-2, pushed Le Havre into crisis before the winter break.

The Norman club had to bounce back from the start of the year, which it succeeded two weeks ago by winning in the last quarter of an hour against Angers 2-1. It has taken 5 steps ahead of the relegation zone but remains in danger in the race to maintain itself. With 15 goals scored in 17 days, Le Havre is the penultimate attack in Ligue 1. 

Stade Rennais is preparing for this meeting with a defensive sector weakened by the suspension of Jacquet and the call-up of Ait Boudlal with his selection. Two fewer starters for Habib Beye who could combine Rouault, Brassier and Seidu in his traditional three-way team. The full-back Nagida with little playing time and the downgraded midfielder Seko Fofana are expected in the group after playing in the CAN. Meïté (3 goals in L1), Embolo (4 goals in L1) and Lepaul (9 goals in L1) are competing for the two places at the forefront of the attack. The Le Havre list of defections includes the holders Touré (midfield) and the less used Khadra and Youté.

The coach still cannot count on his number 1 goalkeeper Diaw, retained with Senegal at the CAN, but recovers the substitute Mpasi, whom he should start. The club lost Namli, Delaine, Logbo and Pizarro at the start of the winter transfer window who played supporting roles in the first part of the season. Former Angers and Lille player Sofiane Boufal has just arrived from Royale Union Saint-Gilloise and should make his debut.