Ligue 1, Matchday 5, 20/09/25
FC Nantes orchestrated an improbable comeback, overturning a two-goal deficit against Stade Rennais with Youssef El-Arabi securing a dramatic 96th-minute equalizer.
The Match
The Brittany Derby commenced in a charged and defiant atmosphere, notable for the return of Valentin Rongier and Quentin Merlin to their former home ground, now sporting the colours of their formative club`s fierce rivals. The ex-Marseille players were met with a torrent of boos every time they touched the ball.
Nantes, recognized as the least potent attacking force in Ligue 1 with just one goal in their previous four fixtures, once again displayed their inefficiency in front of goal. Matthis Abline`s header set up Mostafa Mohamed for a clear opportunity, but the Egyptian international hurried his chip attempt over Brice Samba. Following a slow start, Rennes gradually asserted control, effectively neutralizing Nantes` offensive efforts and gaining a strong presence in midfield.
Rennes was subsequently awarded a penalty after Tylel Tati controversially deflected a cross from Estéban Lepaul with his arm during a tackle – a call that appeared debatable. Unfazed, Ludovic Blas emphatically converted the spot-kick past Lopes. Nantes` morale seemed shattered, and Rennes seized the opportunity to extend their advantage. Blas initiated a move, finding Alidu Seidu on Nantes` left flank. The Ghanaian right-back outran Nicolas Cozza, delivering a cross to Estéban Lepaul, who with a solitary powerful touch, netted to make it 2-0.
The second half saw Nantes significantly increase their ball possession, as Rennes struggled to adapt to Habib Beye`s tactical adjustments. Valentin Rongier and Alidu Seidu were forced off, making way for Djaoui Cissé and Lilian Brassier. Rennes started conceding more fouls and misplacing passes. Nantes` proactive approach after the break was eventually rewarded when Junior Mwanga halved the deficit from close range midway through the second period.
Habib Beye adopted a cautious strategy, tightening his defence by substituting Ludovic Blas with Hans Hateboer. Nantes persisted in their quest for a late equalizer. Les Canaris believed their opportunity had arisen when Hateboer fouled Youssef El-Arabi inside the penalty area. However, Brice Samba proved decisive, making a superb save to thwart Matthis Abline`s effort.
It appeared Rennes had managed to escape with the win, but Youssef El-Arabi had other ideas. With the very last kick of the match, in the 96th minute, the former Caen striker ignited La Beaujoire with a spectacular half-volley that soared into Samba`s top left corner. For Rennes, this outcome undeniably felt like two valuable points squandered.
Player Ratings
Rennes Player Ratings:
- Brice Samba – 7
- Alidu Seidu – 6
- Jérémy Jacquet – 5
- Anthony Rouault – 4
- Quentin Merlin – 5
- Seko Fofana – 6
The former Lens midfielder exerted a dominant presence at La Beaujoire, prevailing in the majority of his aerial and ground duels. The Ivorian international also appeared to be back to his peak physical condition, playing the entire duration of the match.
- Ludovic Blas – 5
- Valentin Rongier – 5
- Mahdi Camara – 5
- Breel Embolo – 3
The former AS Monaco striker has yet to fully settle in Brittany. His impact on the game was negligible; he squandered numerous possessions and failed to create any significant scoring opportunities. He was substituted by Mousa Al-Tamari in the second half.
- Estéban Lepaul – 6
The 25-year-old centre-forward, however, is adapting very well to his new surroundings. His deflected cross resulted in the opening goal from the penalty spot. Just seven minutes later, he demonstrated his predatory instinct, being perfectly positioned to double his team`s lead with a composed finish inside the box.
Selected Nantes Player Ratings:
- Nicolas Cozza – 3
- Matthis Abline – 3
