Fonseca is expected to set Lyon up in his usual 4-2-3-1, with a double pivot protecting the back four and the creative talents operating in the half-spaces. The predicted lineup includes Samba in goal, a back line of Frankowski, Cresswell, Rouault and Merlin, with Camara and Rongier sitting deep. Blas, Soumaré and Lepaul are likely to support the lone striker, and that front four has the movement to knife through Rennes' lines if they are given time on the ball.

Haise, meanwhile, is expected to deploy his familiar 4-4-2, a shape that prioritises compactness and quick transitions. Rennes will look to press in midfield and spring forward through the wide areas, but without Cisse they lose a bit of bite in the engine room. The midfield dogfight will be crucial: if Lyon's double pivot can dominate the second balls and recycle possession, Rennes will be pinned back. If Rennes can turn it into a scrappy, broken game, they have the forwards to punish mistakes.

The key tactical battle will be in the half-spaces. Lyon's attacking midfielders will look to drift inside and combine with the striker, while Rennes' full-backs will be tasked with tracking those runs. Set-pieces could also be decisive: Lyon have the height and delivery to trouble Rennes from corners and free-kicks, and the visitors have shown vulnerability in the air in recent games. Expect Lyon to dominate possession and territory, with Rennes looking to hit on the break.