Ligue 1: Blas' Stoppage-Time Goal Gives Rennes 1-0 Win Over Marseille

Rennes stun Marseille with late winner in Ligue 1 opener

Rennes secured a 1-0 win over Marseille in the Ligue 1 opener, thanks to Ludovic Blas' decisive goal in stoppage time, despite being reduced to 10 men.

In an unexpected twist, Rennes had their best chance of the half after going down to 10 men...

Match Summary

Rennes pulled off a stunning upset against Marseille, securing a win in the dying minutes of the match despite being reduced to 10 men. The winning goal was scored by Blas, who netted in the late stages of the game, ending Marseille's streak of five consecutive wins in league openers. This dramatic finish marked a thrilling start to the Ligue 1 season.

Early Game Dynamics

The match began with both teams showing signs of rustiness, typical for the first game of the season. Rennes' strategy to play with intensity and pace was evident, but Marseille's Mason Greenwood had the first significant chance, blazing his shot over the bar from a promising position. Despite the early nerves, both teams gradually found their rhythm, setting the stage for a closely contested match.

The match took a dramatic turn when Rennes were reduced to 10 men just after the half-hour mark, with Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal's reckless challenge on Michael Amir Murillo earning him a straight red card. Despite being a man down, Rennes managed to hold out against Marseille's attacks until halftime. Marseille's dominance in the remaining minutes of the half didn't yield any goals, with Adrien Rabiot's added-time shot hitting the post.

In an unexpected twist, Rennes had their best chance of the half after going down to 10 men. Valentin Rongier's fierce strike tested Geronimo Rulli's reflexes, but the goalkeeper managed to make the save. Marseille's failure to capitalize on their man advantage meant the teams headed into the break with the score still goalless, setting the stage for a potentially explosive second half.

Stade Rennais claim their first victory of the 2025/2026 season! 🖤❤️ pic.twitter.com/XYFru452Ka

— Ligue 1 English (@Ligue1_ENG) August 15, 2025

Marseille's efforts were hit with misfortune as they hit the post for the second time before the hour mark. Michael Amir Murillo, who had been fouled for Rennes' red card, struck the woodwork with a header, highlighting the visitors' persistence. Marseille's attacks continued, with Brice Samba making crucial saves to deny Leonardo Balerdi and Murillo again.

The match ended in dramatic fashion as Rennes capitalized on Marseille's wastefulness. Ludovic Blas scored a stunning winner in stoppage time, unleashing a brilliant strike that sealed victory for the home side. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Rennes' determination and efficiency paid off, leaving Marseille to rue their missed opportunities.

Rennes' stunning upset against Marseille marked a phenomenal result for the hosts, who managed to secure a win despite being reduced to 10 men. Habib Beye's side held their own against one of Paris Saint-Germain's expected title challengers, showcasing their resilience and determination. This impressive display will undoubtedly boost the team's confidence, even if they haven't been prolific in keeping clean sheets, with only three shutouts in 11 matches under Beye's leadership.

Meanwhile, Roberto De Zerbi will likely be disappointed with Marseille's performance, particularly given their strong preseason form and dominance in recent head-to-head matches against Rennes. Marseille's inability to capitalize on their man advantage and create scoring opportunities will be a concern for the team as they move forward in the league.