Arnaud Kalimuendo lights up Roazhon Park with hat-trick in Rennais rout

Arnaud Kalimuendo stole the show as Rennais crushed Saint-Étienne 5-0, ending their Ligue 1 slump in emphatic style.

The young French-born Congolese forward delivered a scintillating performance, netting a hat-trick and reigniting hope for the home side after a turbulent start to the season.

Tensions were palpable at Roazhon Park as frustrated Rennes fans unleashed thick smoke from the Mordelles end, briefly halting the match. Once play resumed, Saint-Étienne’s Mathieu Cafaro missed a golden chance to open the scoring, striking the post in a one-on-one with Steve Mandanda. Moments later, Cafaro’s handball led to a penalty and his dismissal. Kalimuendo calmly converted, giving Rennes their first goal since late October.

Kalimuendo’s brilliance continued, setting up Ludovic Blas for a stunning finish before halftime. The second half saw Rennais dominate a depleted Saint-Étienne, with Blas assisting Amine Gouiri for the third. Kalimuendo then completed his hat-trick with a clinical strike and a second penalty.

This dazzling display reminded fans why Kalimuendo is one of Ligue 1’s rising stars, delivering the statement win Rennais desperately needed.