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In a highly anticipated Ligue 1 showdown, two contrasting sides, Nice and Rennes, are set to lock horns at the Allianz Riviera on November 5, 2023, at 7.45pm UK time. This clash holds significant importance as unbeaten Nice aim to maintain their remarkable start to the season, while Rennes looks to bounce back from a mixed campaign so far.

Nice, led by the youthful manager Francesco Farioli, have defied all expectations by sitting atop the Ligue 1 table after 10 games. Their stunning run has been built on a rock-solid defense, conceding a mere four goals all season, the best defensive record in the league. With five consecutive clean sheets and a penchant for 1-0 victories in their recent matches, the Eaglets are determined to extend their unbeaten streak.

On the other hand, Rennes, who finished fourth last season, have struggled to find consistency in the 2023-24 season. European commitments have taken a toll, resulting in a disappointing run of form with only one win in their last five outings across all competitions. They currently find themselves in eighth place in the Ligue 1 standings.

The stage is set for an intriguing battle as Nice seeks to maintain their dominance, while Rennes looks to find their footing. Let’s delve deeper into the analysis of both teams.

Analysis

Nice: The Unbeatable Eagles

Francesco Farioli’s Nice have taken Ligue 1 by storm this season, defying all expectations. Their ascent to the top of the table has been nothing short of remarkable, surpassing even perennial favorites Paris Saint-Germain before the latest round of fixtures. The key to their success has undoubtedly been their impervious defense, conceding just four goals in ten matches, a feat unmatched in the league.

The Eaglets’ defensive prowess is further emphasized by their five consecutive clean sheets, a remarkable achievement in itself. Their last four victories have all come by a slender 1-0 margin, showcasing their ability to grind out results. This remarkable defensive form has also seen them as the only team in Europe’s top five leagues yet to concede a lead this season.

While the question of whether Nice can sustain this form throughout the season remains, there is a sense of optimism in the air. The team is on track to surpass their ninth-place finish from the previous season, and their home form will play a pivotal role in determining their success. Although they have secured just two wins from five home matches, they have remained unbeaten on their turf.

In terms of team news, Nice will be without the services of the suspended Youcef Atal. The Algerian defender is serving a seven-match ban due to a social media post related to the Israel-Gaza conflict. Jordan Lotomba and Sofiane Diop are nearing returns from thigh injuries but might not feature in Sunday’s encounter. Terem Moffi, despite a goal drought since mid-September, could return to the lineup as the central striker.

Rennes: Seeking Consistency

Rennes, on the other hand, has endured a mixed start to the 2023-24 season, largely due to their European commitments. The team’s inability to defeat struggling Strasbourg at home in their previous match has left manager Bruno Genesio frustrated. With just one win in their last five matches across all competitions, Rennes is facing a challenging period.

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One of the glaring issues for Rennes has been their performance away from home. They currently hold the fourth-worst away record in Ligue 1, failing to secure a single win on their travels this season. Scoring just twice in four away games, they have largely struggled to find the back of the net on the road.

Despite their away woes, Rennes has managed to secure three draws in these four games, suggesting their ability to remain competitive. Given their recent struggles and Nice’s formidable defense, another draw might be deemed an acceptable result for Rennes in this encounter.

In terms of team news, Enzo Le Fee is Rennes’ only injury doubt for this weekend’s match. Ludovic Blas, Amine Gouiri, and Arnaud Kalimuendo have been the key contributors in attack for Rennes this season, with each netting two league goals.

Prediction

As we analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, it becomes clear that Nice holds the upper hand in this matchup. Their impregnable defense and home advantage make them strong favorites to secure the victory.

Prediction: Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Nice 2-0 Rennes

Other Betting Markets

1. Both Teams to Score: Given Nice’s exceptional defensive record and Rennes’ struggles in front of goal, it’s likely that both teams won’t score in this match.
2. Over/Under 2.5 Goals (Full Time): Considering the tight nature of Nice’s recent matches, a bet on under 2.5 goals seems prudent.
3. First Half Goals: Rennes’ tendency to concede in the first half of away matches suggests that there could be early action in this game.

Hot Stat: Rennes has failed to win 11 of their last 13 league games as the pre-match outsider, which further supports the prediction of a Nice victory.

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