(Ligue 1 2023/2024): Highlights STADE RENNAIS FC - FC METZ

Metz were back in the top flight after a single season absence, but faced a daunting task at the home of Rennes. Despite injury to Martin Therrier, expected back within four to six weeks, Ruggineseo's side won their last four at Rosanne Park. 13 goals, two conceded, en route to a top four finish. Metz boss Lazo Bologna back in the big time 12 years later, having managed Lens and a recent contract extension. Rennes though not so welcoming on the pitch. Amine Kouriri bringing the save out to Alexander Okidja in his 100th Ligue 1 Uber Eats appearance. But it wasn't to be a pleasant one. Les Rouges Noirs wanted no repeat of the shock opening day defeat against Breton rivals Lorient last campaign. Amine Kouriri flicks into the back post. Arnaud Caramuendo nudged, but quickly back to his feet to tap in. A first league goal since March when he scored against ex-club Paris Saint-Germain. Ending a nine game goalless streak. Falling back in love with goals. And yet what a response from their promoted side. Georges Mikotadze and Youssef Maziz shared a telepathy last term for the seventh time as a pairing. They combined for a goal for the first time in the top flight. Rennes lead gone in 60 seconds. Lyon born Georgian international Mikotadze finding Maziz. The first Ligue 1 Uber Eats goal. Mess winless in the last eight top flight away games. Yet all square at the break. Their last visit in March 2022 however ended in a 6-1 mauling. Could they avoid a repeat? Ludovic Blas alongside Martin Thierrier waiting for their opportunity. Blas assigning along with Enzo Lefe. He was on the field as Benjamin Bourdieu's effort deflected in off Amine Gouiri. The Rennes captain in a sense taking the assist despite Gouiri not knowing much about it. A fourth goal for the forward against Mess. Jeremy Doku looking to impress having ended the season strongly. Started the move and then perfectly placed to pounce. His 10th Ligue 1 Uber Eats goal but seven alone coming in 2023 showing his increasing influence in Rougenois. The Belgians saluted Rozan Park who rose to their feet to salute him as he was replaced by 21-year-old Ibrahim Salah for the last six minutes. Three million euro signing from Ghent. The Moroccan freshman lifting the under-23 AFCON title with his country and was in confident mood. Again Oki Japaming into traffic straight at the red lights. After 13 appearances last season and 270 minutes of action just three needed to open his account. Mess desperate for the final whistle. A painful return to the top flight. They ended their last campaign with a 5-0 humbling in Paris and they concede five once again. Salah four touches two goals. The first Rennes player to score twice as a substitute since January 2022. Oki Jap just couldn't buy a teammate being to the ball first. Rennes leaders after the best winning performance. Mess rock bottom. Only one match but Rennes looking a contender for a podium fight.