PSG vs Rennes: Pre-Match Analysis and Predictions

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set to host Stade Rennais Football Club (Rennes) at the Parc des Princes on Friday night. This fixture allows PSG some additional rest time ahead of their Champions League clash with Arsenal the following week. Currently, PSG shares the top spot in Ligue 1 with both Marseille and Monaco, following a draw against Reims in their previous match.

Under the management of Luis Enrique, PSG has demonstrated impressive form, scoring 17 goals in their first five league matches, despite the absence of star player Kylian Mbappe. They are widely considered favorites for the upcoming match against Rennes.

Rennes, managed by Julien Stéphan, has secured seven points from their early season games, including a draw against Lens last weekend. Despite their current six-point gap from the top three positions, Rennes is looking to capitalize on any PSG distractions due to their upcoming European commitments. Notably, Rennes maintains a respectable recent record against PSG and aims to build on this.

The probable lineup for PSG includes Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with a defense consisting of Achraf Hakimi, Milan Skriniar, Diego Beraldo, and Nuno Mendes. The midfield may feature Kang-In Lee, Fabián Ruiz, and Vitinha Neves, with an attacking lineup potentially formed by Ousmane Dembele, Randal Kolo Muani, and Bradley Barcola.

Rennes is likely to field Steve Mandanda in goal, supported by defenders Hans Hateboer, Christopher Wooh, and Désiré Doué Seidu. Their midfield could consist of Lorenz Assignon, Baptiste Santamaria, Azor Matusiwa, and Adrien Truffert, while Ludovic Blas, Arnaud Kalimuendo, and Andreas Gronbaek could lead the attack.

Both teams have a record of scoring in their initial matches of the season. Rennes has netted in all five of their Ligue 1 encounters, while PSG has witnessed both teams scoring in four of their five league matches. Historical data between the two sides from last season shows that both teams scored in two out of three meetings, indicating a strong chance for both to score again.

For bettors, one popular wager is on both teams to score, with odds available at various betting platforms. Additionally, considering PSG’s tendency for high-scoring games, betting on PSG to win with over 2.5 total goals is also considered favorable. This is supported by PSG’s four victories this season, each featuring a minimum of four goals scored.

Randal Kolo Muani emerges as a key player for PSG, leading the team in expected goals per 90 minutes played, following his strong performance in matches against Girona and Reims. With the prospect of a starting position again on Friday, there is speculation that Kolo Muani could find the net, making his potential to score a popular betting choice.