Lyon vs Rennes

Lyon host Rennes on 19 September in a fixture that already carries some early-season weight. Both sides have made bright starts — Lyon sit 3rd with seven points from three games, while Rennes sit just behind in 5th on the same tally. Three points here would be an early statement in the race for Europe. Lyon are unbeaten in the league, beating Toulouse and Auxerre either side of a draw at Le Havre, while also juggling Europa League qualifying duty against Fenerbahçe. Rennes have been just as consistent, picking up wins over Angers and Le Mans plus a credible draw against Paris Saint-Germain. Up front, Loïs Openda has been Lyon's early standout, backed by playmaker Pavel Sulc. For Rennes, Estéban Lepaul has already scored three goals to lead the line, with Adrien Thomasson supplying the service. This fixture has produced tight, closely fought contests in recent seasons, with little separating the two sides. Our prediction: 2-1