Juventus – Rennes: Preview
We discuss the predictions for the match between Juventus and Rennes in the context of the third round of the group stage of the 2026/27 Europa League.
"Juventus" leads the Europa League group stage table with six points. "Rennes" is two points behind their next rival.
Key Points
Juventus
1. "Juventus" suffered the most painful defeat of the season
Against their own fans, Luciano Spalletti’s side left three unanswered goals to "Lazio" (0:3) in their nets. This failure is unpleasant in itself, as it interrupted a four‑match unbeaten run, but it also became the second loss of the season. Fans are more disappointed by the lack of progress in the game, as such an obvious loss had not yet occurred. However, in the Europa League, "Juventus" is doing very well: two decisive wins over NEC (5:0) and "Celta" (2:1), which now allow them to top the table.
2. Fewer losses have not been achieved, changes are suggested
"Juventus" has had significant squad problems; currently Luciano Spalletti does not have at least three youth players. Defender Heeren Turam and winger Kenan Yildiz have not played much this season, and captain Manuel Locatelli has been unavailable since early September. These losses are critical to the current style of play, so improvisation is required. In particular, the tactical change suggests reverting to a three‑defender setup. The four‑defender line has not lived up to expectations for a long time.
3. "Bianconeri" have not lost at home in the Europa League for a long time
"Juventus" is a great club and participation in the second European competition is not their goal; in the current season they returned to the Europa League after three years. Of course, the club does not plan to neglect the competition: the possibility of winning the title and gaining access to the Champions League is a sufficient incentive, especially in the face of potential problems in Serie A. A good start, two wins and leadership, but the important thing is not to stop. On their own ground, in this competition, "Juventus" has not lost in more than twenty years, with nine wins in 16 matches – a streak that certainly deserves to be extended.
Rennes
1. "Rennes" also lost over the weekend in the league
With this, they also approach the next fixture in a less than optimal mood. Emotionally, the defeat against "Paris" was not overwhelming (3:4), but it brought the same amount of negativity: four penalties were conceded. The three goals for "Rennes" were scored from eleven metres, which hardly adds confidence to the team. Before this loss, they had won two consecutive matches. Although in the Europa League the visitors are not as brilliant with the calm schedule – they beat Greek "OFI" (2:1) effortlessly and drew with Austrian "Sturm" (0:0).
2. The appearance of Esteban Lepol remains a question
The team’s best striker, Esteban Lepol, could not lead the team to victory over the weekend, but he scored the three point goals, consolidating himself with seven goals in the Ligue 1 top‑scorer race. However, after the match it was known that the striker has ankle problems – the player himself says it is not that bad, but there is no guarantee of his appearance in the Turin match. Of course, if there are questions about Esteban Lepol’s condition, head coach Franck Ez will probably put Bulae Dia’s experience on the front line. Overall, no surprises.
3. The "Red and Blacks" let too many goals through away
In reality, Rennes’ defensive problems are noticeable on any ground throughout the early part of the season. For example, in the French league, in the first ten, they have the worst defense by far. Away, it manifests more frequently; in the last two away matches the "red and blacks" conceded a total of eight goals – averaging four per game. The indicators that cannot bring any joy, in the Europa League they have not occurred either. Now they will face their first serious opponent in the tournament, they need to reinforce the defense.
Approximate lineups
3-4-3-4-3-2-5
Vikario 4
Gatti 6
Kelly 15
Kalyulu 20
Cambyazo 29
Sarr 8
Kopemyers 22
McKenney 17
Alaybegovich 27
Voltemade 11
Zhegrova 30
Samba 95
Frankowski 4
Crewswell 48
Ait Budlal 18
Nagida 45
Camara 17
Shimanskiy 21
Ronje 10
Blas 22
Dia 11
Tamari
Trend bets
In four of the last six matches of "Juventus" and in six of the last nine matches of "Rennes" the standard total of goals was exceeded. Bet: TB 2.5 at 1.74.
In four of the last five matches of "Juventus" in the LE and in five of the last eight matches of "Rennes" in this tournament goals were scored on both sides. Bet: OZ at 1.77.
Forecast
Juventus vs Rennes 22.10.2026 20:45
Battle of competitors for the playoff, which in recent weekends ruined their mood in the league matches. "Juventus" received three unanswered goals from "Lazio", while "Rennes" did not receive any three penalties in favor of them in the game against "Paris". Well, now there will be more motivation in the direct confrontation. "Juventus" was in doubtful form before the defeat, but they had not lost in a long time. In the Europa League, Luciano Spalletti’s protected side have perfect figures that want to develop – the Turin side has not conceded at home in the LE for years. For "Rennes" it will be difficult to face the favourite, especially if the main striker does not play and does not compensate for the endless defensive failures. Away, especially "the red and blacks" let through a lot and are increasingly less surprising with quality. This match will not disappoint due to the lack of intrigue, however, "Juventus" also has problems, but even so at home they must take their own.
Forecast: 2-1
