French-Algerian Yassine Benhattab shines as Nantes salvage draw against Rennes

Yassine Benhattab made a decisive impact after coming off the bench in Nantes’ dramatic 2-2 derby draw with Rennes at the Stade de la Beaujoire on Saturday.

The 22-year-old Moroccan winger, starting his fifth match on the season’s bench, entered the game in the 67th minute with Rennes leading 2-1 and Nantes on the verge of their fourth defeat in five Ligue 1 games. Benhattab quickly injected pace and creativity into Nantes’ attack, demonstrating the attributes that make him a specialist on the flank.

From the moment he entered, Benhattab used his left foot to challenge defenders, deliver precise crosses, and create space for teammates. Over the remainder of the match, he was involved in three key opportunities, supplying dangerous passes and crosses that put Nantes’ forwards in promising positions.

The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time. In the 96th minute, Benhattab delivered a pinpoint cross that was barely deflected by Rennes’ Abline before finding Moroccan striker Youssef El Arabi. The forward executed a perfect volley to secure a late equalizer, rescuing a point for the home side and denying Rennes victory in the heated Loire-Atlantique derby.

Benhattab’s performance underlines his growing importance to Nantes, particularly in matches where creativity and width are essential to breaking down organized defenses. Despite limited minutes this season, the young winger continues to showcase his technical skill, vision, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.

The draw leaves Nantes in a challenging position in Ligue 1, but Benhattab’s contribution offers hope for a turnaround in their form. Rennes, who dominated large periods of the game, were left frustrated as a late intervention from the Moroccan winger denied them a deserved win.

Managerial staff praised Benhattab’s ability to change the dynamic of the match in a short period. His pace, dribbling, and decision-making on the ball have added a new dimension to Nantes’ attack, and his involvement in El Arabi’s late goal reflects a growing synergy between the club’s creative and attacking players.

As the season progresses, Benhattab will likely be a key figure for Nantes, particularly in fixtures requiring inventive attacking play and clutch contributions. Saturday’s display serves as a reminder of his potential and the impact a winger of his quality can have, even when coming off the bench.

With the Ligue 1 season still in its early stages, Nantes will look to build on the point earned against Rennes, relying on Benhattab to provide moments of magic that can change games in their favor. For the young Moroccan, the match represents a personal milestone and a statement of intent, demonstrating that he can deliver when it matters most.

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— 𝗠𝗘𝗥𝗖𝗨. 🔍🇩🇿 (@CompsMercu) September 21, 2025