### Yon Ligue 1 Round 33: Lyon Beats Rennes 2-1
In a thrilling match that showcased the strength and resilience of French football, Lyon secured their place back in the UEFA Europa League qualification zone with a convincing 2-1 victory over Rennes at Stade de France on Saturday evening.
#### Match Highlights
The game began with both teams showing early intent, but it was Lyon who took control after just eight minutes when Samuel Umtiti scored from close range. The goal put Lyon ahead for the first time, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
Rennes managed to get back into the game through a well-worked move involving Lucas Digne and Yoann Gourcuff. However, Lyon's defense held firm, ensuring they maintained their lead until the end of the half.
In the second half, Lyon continued to dominate possession and create opportunities. Antoine Griezmann finally broke the deadlock with his second goal of the match, putting Lyon firmly in front.
With the score now 2-1, Lyon knew they were safe from relegation, but they did not want to risk another defeat that could have pushed them closer to the drop zone. Instead, they pressed hard, and their efforts paid off as they sealed the win with a third goal from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang late in the match.
#### Key Performances
- **Samuel Umtiti**: His crucial goal in the first half set up Lyon's dominance.
- **Antoine Griezmann**: His two goals ensured Lyon's victory and kept them in the Europa League qualification zone.
- **Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang**: His final strike completed Lyon's perfect performance against Rennes.
#### Impact on Lyon's Season
Lyon's victory over Rennes is significant for several reasons:
1. **Europa League Qualification**: The win keeps Lyon in contention for the Europa League, which is a prestigious competition that can significantly boost their reputation and potentially open doors to more lucrative domestic competitions.
2. **Resilience**: The team demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, maintaining their top spot in the league despite facing tough opponents.
3. **Fan Support**: The home crowd showed unwavering support for Lyon, contributing to the excitement and atmosphere of the stadium.
#### Next Steps
Lyon will look to build on this momentum as they continue their season. They will face off against Bordeaux next weekend, looking to maintain their position in the top four and secure their place in the Champions League play-offs.
Overall, Lyon's victory over Rennes is a testament to their ability to perform under pressure and secure important results that will be crucial for their ongoing success in French football.