Lorient beat Rennes in all-Breton clash

FC Lorient claimed a 2–0 victory away to Stade Rennais on Saturday 24 January 2026, completing a derby double over their Breton rivals at the Roazhon Park. The result represents a significant setback for Rennes’ European ambitions, while Lorient’s impressive run continues.

The match was decided early. Jean‑Christophe Makengo gave Lorient the lead after just three minutes, capitalising on a high recovery before curling a precise effort from the edge of the area beyond Brice Samba. It was a perfect start for Olivier Pantaloni’s side, who quickly settled into a compact and disciplined defensive shape.

Rennes dominated possession (69%) and territory, but struggled to turn control into clear chances. The hosts thought they had equalised midway through the first half through Breel Embolo, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside following a VAR review. Alidu Seidu then struck the post on 17 minutes, summing up a frustrating afternoon for Habib Beye’s team.

The pattern remained unchanged after the break. Rennes pushed, delivered crosses and won set pieces, but Yvon Mvogo proved decisive, notably denying Jaouid Cissé and Quentin Merlin. Lorient, patient and organised, waited for the opportunity to strike on the counter.

Lorient upsets Rennes on the road 🐟💥 pic.twitter.com/WJj11p4VTS
— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) January 24, 2026

That moment arrived in the 77th minute. Pablo Pagis doubled Lorient’s advantage, finishing at the near post after a swift counter‑attack and a well‑timed delivery from Avom following good work by Cadiou. The goal effectively sealed the derby.

Strong in the duels and clinical when it mattered, Lorient extend their unbeaten run to eight Ligue 1 matches and move into the top ten. Rennes, meanwhile, drop valuable points in the battle for Europe and will need a rapid response to avoid losing ground on their direct rivals.

Once again, Lorient confirm their recent status as Rennes’ bogey side, while questions grow around Rennes’ consistency at a crucial point in the season.

THE STAT: Maken-Go!

Having already scored at Monaco last week, Jean-Victor Makengo found the net in two consecutive Ligue 1 matches for the first time in 118 appearances in the top flight. The Lorient midfielder has equalled his most prolific season in L1, in 2019/20 (2 goals with Toulouse).