The Stade Rennais squad travels to Marseille this evening for the season’s final Ligue 1 fixture, knowing a victory could secure Champions League football next season. With former coach Habib Beye now leading Marseille, emotions will run high when the two sides meet.

The Rouge et Noir arrive in the south with European ambitions intact. Fresh off last weekend’s crucial 2-1 victory against Paris FC, Rennes currently sit fourth in the table and will be aiming to finish third if results elsewhere go their way. A win in Marseille combined with Lille dropping points against Auxerre would see them leapfrog into the Champions League places. Even if those results don’t fall their way, a draw against Marseille would still guarantee European football in the form of next season’s Europa League.

Don’t miss the action live on ICI Armorique starting at 20:30 CET, with kickoff set for 21:00 CET. Commentary will be provided by François Rauzy and former Rennes player Flavien Tait, who experienced Champions League football with the club in 2020.

Key storyline: Beye’s return to Rennes

This match presents a fascinating subplot as Habib Beye makes his first return to Rennes since departing the club earlier this season. His departure came amid a challenging period where poor squad management left the team in turmoil. Since taking over at Marseille, Beye has struggled to steady the ship, collecting just 16 points from 33 possible in eleven matches, leaving the Phocéens well short of Champions League qualification.

What’s at stake for both teams

• Rennes: A victory would secure third place and Champions League football, while avoiding defeat would still guarantee Europa League qualification
• Marseille: The club currently sits seven points off the Champions League places and has struggled for consistency under Beye’s leadership