Lille is facing challenges ahead of their upcoming Champions League trip to Valencia after a 2-0 defeat against Rennes in an advanced meeting of the 7th day. The loss was compounded by the exit of Rio Mavuba due to a knee injury, with the midfielder and captain being replaced by Florent Balmont in the 52nd minute.
Manager Rudi Garcia expressed dissatisfaction with the circumstances, stating, “Unfortunately, there were incidents of play that were unfavorable to us, like the departure of our captain (Rio Mavuba) who has a bad knee. Did he take a hit? I don’t know, but he couldn’t continue. It’s not a good evening, that’s clear…”
Regarding Mavuba’s injury, the AFP reported, “It may be the meniscus.” This injury adds to Lille’s challenges as they prepare for their Champions League match against Valencia on Tuesday. Despite the difficulties and injuries, Rudi Garcia emphasized the team’s determination, saying, “It’s good that we’re playing in the Champions League. This is a good thing. We are going to come out of the championship where we are in a points deficit, and we are going to do everything to show that, despite the current difficulties and the injuries, we will be able to achieve a result in Valencia.”
In addition to the defeat and Mavuba’s injury, Rudi Garcia was sent off at the end of the match.
