Lorient Ready for High-Stakes Breton Derby Clash Against Rennes
As Ligue 1 heads into Matchday 35, the spotlight in Brittany turns to the derby between Rennes and Lorient, with the visitors heading into Saturday’s clash having already secured their top-flight survival. With relegation fears behind them, the Merlus now look to finish the season on a high — and nothing would boost morale more than a derby win.
Despite having little at stake in terms of the league table, Lorient midfielder Cheick Doukouré insists the match carries deep meaning. Speaking to the club’s official website ahead of the derby, the Franco-Ivorian underlined the emotional weight and competitive spirit that comes with facing Rennes.
“There’s a special flavor to this match, a rivalry between the two clubs,” Doukouré said. “We also want to redeem ourselves after our performance last weekend against Montpellier. Even though we managed to come back in the final minutes, it doesn’t erase what we’ve done before.”
Lorient’s 1-1 draw against Montpellier may have offered late drama, but Doukouré admits the team was not at its best and sees Saturday’s derby as a chance to make amends. “The stakes are high in this match, and we’ll do everything we can to win,” he added.
While Lorient approaches the game with confidence, Rennes will be looking to assert their dominance at home and maintain bragging rights in the region. With pride, rivalry, and form all on the line, the Breton derby promises to deliver its usual dose of passion and intensity — regardless of league position.
