Rennes secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Paris FC on Sunday, clinching a European spot for next season. Trailing 1-0 at halftime, Rennes turned the match around with two quick second-half goals, first through top scorer Estéban Lepaul and then a clever finish from a Swiss substitute.
Lepaul, the leading marksman in Ligue 1 this season, struck in the 74th minute to level the score. He headed home a corner from Merlin, powering the ball under the crossbar past goalkeeper Trapp. It was his 20th goal of the campaign, a milestone that underlined his importance to the side. Earlier in the first half, Lepaul had tested Trapp with a fine turn and shot, but the keeper was equal to it.
"He was there, the top scorer of Ligue 1, pulling his team out of difficulty when needed," the match report noted. The equalizer reinvigorated Rennes, who had struggled to break down a resolute Paris FC defense.
The winning goal came just one minute later, in the 75th minute. A Swiss attacker, who had entered the game in the 67th minute as a substitute for Szymanski, proved decisive. He latched onto a cross from Nordin—another impactful substitute—and executed a backheel finish reminiscent of Rabah Madjer's iconic goal, beating defender Coppola to the ball and slotting it home.
The Swiss player had been a "victim" of Rennes' switch to a 4-3-3 formation at kickoff, which had left him on the bench. But his introduction changed the game. His goal not only sealed the victory but also guaranteed Rennes a place in European competition next season, a significant achievement for the club.
For Lepaul, the season continues to be remarkable. His 20 goals have propelled Rennes up the table, and his ability to deliver in crucial moments has made him a fan favorite. The equalizer against Paris FC was another example of his poaching instinct and aerial prowess.
Paris FC, who had taken the lead earlier, will rue their inability to hold on. They had controlled much of the match but were undone by Rennes' quickfire double. The defeat leaves them in a precarious position in the standings.
Rennes' coach will be pleased with the response from his team, particularly the impact of the substitutes. The win moves them into a European berth, providing a boost for the final stretch of the season. The Swiss attacker's cameo will likely earn him more playing time going forward.
With the victory, Rennes now look ahead to their remaining fixtures with confidence, knowing that their European dream is alive. For Lepaul, the quest for more goals continues as he aims to finish as the league's top scorer.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.
