Stade Rennais – AS Monaco: Monaco maintain their form with slim victory in cagey affair (1-2)

Rennes and Monaco engaged in a tactically intense contest. Both sides deployed near-identical pressing systems, suffocating space and forcing turnovers in midfield. The high-octane, man-to-man pressure made it difficult for either team to build sustained attacks, creating a game of tight margins. Ultimately, individual brilliance broke the deadlock, with moments of skill and quick decision-making outshining the organized pressing structures to decide the match.

Tactical analysis and match report by Fahd Ahmed.

The clash between Stade Rennais and AS Monaco at Roazhon Park was crucial for both teams in their final game before the upcoming international break. Julien Stéphan’s Rennes endured a mixed start to the domestic season prior to the fixture on Saturday night. Recent results included commanding victories over Lyon and Montpellier, a surprising defeat to Strasbourg, a frustrating tie against Lens, whilst deservedly being beaten by in-form Reims and French champions Paris Saint-Germain. In contrast, Monaco enjoyed a splendid opening few weeks. Having remained undefeated in the league and level on points with the reigning champions, Adi Hütter’s side were flying high.

Both teams made a few changes from their last league game. Rennes had an altered backline, with Alidu Seidu, Leo Østigård, and Adrien Truffert retaining their places, whilst Hans Hateboer and Mikayil Faye were introduced. Further up the field, Glen Kamara replaced Baptiste Santamaria in midfield, while the frontline remained unchanged except for Albert Grønbæk replacing Amine Gouiri. 

As for Monaco, there were similar changes to the backline with Thilo Kehrer, Christian Mawissa, and Kassoum Ouattara included. Furthermore, Takumi Minamino and Lamine Camara were chosen over . . .