(Ligue 1 2022/2023): Highlights BRESTOIS - RENNAIS

Rennes were in a three-way battle with two European places up for grabs, but they faced a huge challenge at home to neighbours Brest. Bruno Genesio's side started a point behind Lille and, while on points with Monaco, a 16-goal advantage over the Principality Club. Le Rouge et Noir knew victory would at least assure a Europa Conference League place. Yet they faced a Brest outfit who'd secured their top-flight status in style, not since 1990 had Les Pirates won five of the spin at home. And yet Benjamin Bourdieu silenced their Breton rivals. Just 30 minutes in, side-fitting the free-kick past a well-beaten Marco Bizotte. A first-time wrecked free-kick from a midfielder since January 2022 against Bordeaux. And things were looking worse for Brest. Unfortunate that Bourdieu wasn't quite as clinical. Steve Meunier then got up ahead of Steam. Jeremy Ledoux-Aron, his shot blocked, and blocked by the hand of Omari Traore. A chance to get back into the match. Rennes captain slipping and then panicking to keep his hand in place. And smashing in. The rebound thankfully didn't matter. Once again the Pirates were swashbuckling and back on level terms. We'll go Alomar in for the injured Steve Mondonda. Well beaten, but Bourdieu would want another go. Taking a huge hit and on review a penalty awarded. Pierre Lesmerleux completely pole-axing the Croatian. Bourdieu listened to the boos and completely ignored them. A second brace in the league. The first to score a direct free-kick and a penalty in the top flight since Dimitri Payet in September 2021. Well it was pole position for Pep Genesio's men. The Europa League with Lille and Monaco drawing. Yedlin Dog forged ahead seven minutes after the restart and it seemed like the Europa Conference League might be their destination. Looking for a game-clinching goal. Carl Toko-Ikambi first up and then on the rebound. Firing wide. The press wanting to keep the recent feel-good factor at Le Bley going. The header though easily dealt with. And then the home side making trouble for themselves. Nemi Gouiri obviously fuming with himself. But then the news came through. Lille had failed to win and the victory sent Rennes back to the Europa League. A huge achievement after a big wobble. And the victory for Bourdieu earning fourth position.