Nice - Rennes

Two years ago, Europe was already being played for at the Allianz

OGC Nice in 7th place will face Stade Rennais, in 5th place on Sunday. A vital battle, taking place in a dangerous matchday 32 for those aspiring for Europe.  

Not only has the game got the people of Nice excited, with a bumper crowd expected at the Allianz Riviera, the fixture also brings back certain charming memories. These date back to 10 April 2016. It was matchday 33 of L1, and Rolland Courbis' Bretons travelled to the Côte d'Azur in 4th place in the league. After an almost perfect run (4 wins, 1 draw in 5 games), they were leading Claude Puel's Le Gym by one point. 

Hatem sees triple 

Blinded by the talent of Hatem Ben Arfa, the Rennais didn't see the light of day, in a stadium where they had qualified for the Round of 32 of the Coupe de France slightly earlier in the season (2-2; 6-7 penalties). A penalty (33') then a crossed shot with the right (41') and a bullet strike with the left (55'), the playmaker secured his hat trick.

Set on the route towards Europe,  the Aiglons earned 3 wins and 1 draw during the last five games of the season (4th placed finish). This fixture marked the start of the Rennais' downfall, as they only picked up one point after the game and finished the 2015-16 season in 8th place.