Decisive figure orchestrates Rennes' midfield at Angers | OneFootball

Valentin Rongier ran the game from the base of midfield, dictating tempo and supply as Rennes beat Angers 2-1 at Stade Raymond Kopa.

In the fourth minute of first half stoppage time, Rongier threaded Estéban Lepaul into the right channel, forcing Anthony Lopes to save from close range. It summed up his calm control and forward passing lanes.

After the restart he sparked a rapid counter that ended with Lepaul striking from distance, again springing Angers' back line by releasing runners early into space.

He completed 72 of 77 passes and a team-high 24 into the final third, adding six recoveries and four tackles that kept Rennes on the front foot. Two key passes and one big chance created underlined his balance of poise and punch.

Operating as the single pivot in a 4-1-4-1, Rongier always offered the first outlet and the next line-break, which pulled Angers out of shape and let Rennes control the key phases.

Rennes rise to fourth on seven points and remain unbeaten. They host Marseille next, while Angers visit Le Havre in their upcoming Ligue 1 fixture.