OM vs Rennes: decisive Ligue 1 clash for european football dreams

The Olympique de Marseille (OM) will face Stade Rennais FC in a high-stakes Ligue 1 showdown at the Stade Vélodrome, a match that could redefine the club’s European ambitions for 2026-2027. With just three points separating the teams, the outcome will determine which side secures the 5th-place finish and a coveted spot in the UEFA Europa League.

After a narrow victory over Le Havre, the OM arrives at this decisive fixture with lingering doubts. While the three points boost morale, the performance at Stade Océane raised concerns about defensive stability and attacking firepower—areas that have struggled since Roberto De Zerbi’s departure. Franck Haise, the former OM assistant now leading Rennes, will return to the Vélodrome for the first time since his sacking in February, adding extra spice to an already intense rivalry.

Haise has revitalized Rennes this season, guiding them to eight wins, one draw, and only two defeats in 11 Ligue 1 matches. His counterpart, Habib Beye, faces a stern test. The OM coach must prove his tactical acumen against a seasoned rival while addressing his team’s recurring defensive frailties. The squad, on paper stronger than Rennes’, has underperformed in recent clashes, including a draw against Lorient and losses to Nice and Nantes.

The Vélodrome atmosphere promises to be electric—perhaps even hostile—but OM fans have grown accustomed to such challenges. A victory would not only secure European football but also dethrone Rennes from their current 5th-place spot, which currently grants them the Europa League ticket.

Historical dominance at stake

Rennes and OM have clashed 117 times in Ligue 1, with Marseille holding a slight edge: 50 wins to Rennes’ 34. The Breton side has struggled to impose itself at the Vélodrome in recent years, a trend that could continue unless they pull off an upset.

Recent encounters: OM’s upper hand

17/05/2025: Olympique de Marseille 4-2 Stade Rennais FC
03/12/2023: Olympique de Marseille 2-0 Stade Rennais FC
18/09/2022: Olympique de Marseille 1-1 Stade Rennais FC
19/09/2021: Olympique de Marseille 2-0 Stade Rennais FC
10/03/2021: Olympique de Marseille 1-0 Stade Rennais FC.

Predicted lineups: OM vs Rennes

Habib Beye may be without key defenders Nayef Aguerd and Hamed Traoré, who remain sidelined abroad. Geoffrey Kondogbia, CJ Egan-Riley, and Bilal Nadir are also in question.

Rennes will miss Jérémy Jacquet and Lucas Rosier, while Brice Samba is suspended.

Likely OM starting XI: Rulli – Pavard, Balerdi, Medina – Weah, Timber, Højbjerg, Emerson – Greenwood, Gouiri, Paixão.

Likely Rennes starting XI: Silistrie – Nagida, Aït-Boudlal, Rouault, Merlin – Rongier, Szymanski, Camara – Blas, Al-Tamari, Lepaul.

Match details

Date: Sunday, 17 May 2025
Kick-off: 21:00 CET
Venue: Stade Orange Vélodrome
Broadcast: Ligue 1+ 2 (live match), with Ligue 1+ multiplex coverage available.