Tops
Stripped of his role as captain by Julien Stéphan (in favor of Steve Mandanda), Benjamin Bourigeaud delivered his best performance in many weeks. What’s more, in a new role as right piston. Omnipresent in his lane, the 29-year-old Rennais has regained his technical accuracy and all his energy. This is evidenced by his nice goal scored at the kick-off of the second period (46th), before his decisive pass given to Theate, on a free kick, for the 3-1 (65th). The former Lensois, seen in tears in the mixed zone following the defeat against OL, is smiling again. He deserved the ovation from Roazhon Park when he left the pitch.
Very exposed at only 18 years old, Jeanuël Belocian chased away his old demons to give himself an excellent performance this afternoon. Sent off in particular against Panathinaikos in the Europa League, the Guadeloupe central defender was imperial in his interventions, taking advantage of the 3-4-3 system chosen by Stéphan. His two saves at key moments against Daramy (21st) then Salama (94th) will undoubtedly give a boost of confidence necessary for his progress. Belocian demonstrated all his potential this Sunday, Mandanda can thank him.
He too needed to find positive sensations. It’s done with his third goal scored this season during Rennes’ opener (4th). As a surface fox, Amine Gouiri first put his team on the right track then contributed to the 2-1 action by combining with Martin Terrier. The former Lyonnais, positioned on the right, did not disappoint. Good news for Stéphan, who will have to manage strong competition between his attackers.
Flops
Starting five days ago with Japan against Syria (5-0), in Saudi Arabia, Junya Ito lacked (logically) physical freshness. Usually so fast on the first supports and confusing for the opponent, the Japanese was never in the tone of the match. Problem is, the Stade de Reims does not show the same face at all without the sparks of its winger, a centering machine when he is in good shape. Daramy and others were unable to hide his poor form, so the Champenois bowed without surprise.
Conceding a goal at the start of each half is never a good sign. Reims paid dearly this evening despite a desire still intact to play the game in the opposing camp. Overwhelmed by the speed of Rennes at the start of the second half, Abdelhamid and his teammates completely forgot Theate at the penalty point twenty minutes later. Fatal errors at this level even against a sick Rennes. Will Still will undoubtedly point out the passivity of his players, who fell into the trap with both feet together.