### Rennes' Narrow Victory Over Brest Leads to a Scored-Penalty Win for the Season's Finale
In a thrilling conclusion to the season, Rennes secured a crucial victory against Brest, securing their spot in the final round of the competition with a dramatic scored-penalty win.
#### The Match Recap
The match was played on Saturday at the Stade de la Bastille in Rennes, France. Both teams had been battling for a place in the top four, and this encounter promised to be decisive.
Rennes started strongly, taking control of the game from the outset. Their attacking prowess was evident as they dominated possession and forced several chances. However, Brest managed to keep their composure and maintained a solid defensive structure.
As the half-time whistle blew, the score remained level at 1-1. The second half saw both sides intensifying their efforts, but it was Rennes who finally broke through. In the 75th minute, striker Thomas Lemar scored his first goal of the season, giving Rennes the lead.
Brest fought back, though, and in the 88th minute, they equalized thanks to a penalty kick. The goalkeeper, however, made an outstanding save to prevent a double header.
The game entered extra time, and Rennes continued to dominate the play. They outplayed Brest in every aspect of the game, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Despite this pressure, Brest managed to hold firm and refused to give up.
#### The Decisive Penalty Shootout
With the regular time coming to an end, the match moved into a penalty shootout. Both teams took turns shooting from the spot, with the penalties being taken in order of their position in the lineup.
The shootout began with Rennes taking the first penalty. Defender Antoine Griezmann stepped up to shoot, and his effort was saved by Brest's goalkeeper. The second attempt also went wide, leaving Brest with the advantage.
It was Brest's turn next, and their keeper made another impressive save to deny Rennes' substitute forward. The third penalty was again saved, and Rennes' goalkeeper kept his team alive.
The fourth penalty came from Rennes' captain, Kevin Trézéguet, who hit the post. This gave Brest the chance to take the fifth and deciding penalty, but their shooter failed to convert, sending the ball over the crossbar.
#### Final Result
After seven successful penalties, Brest lost the shootout, and Rennes emerged victorious with a score of 4-2. The result put them in second place in the league standings, just one point behind leaders Lyon.
This narrow victory not only gives Rennes hope for the upcoming season but also sets up a challenging final round against Lyon, where they will face off against the defending champions.
#### Post-Match Analysis
Head coach Didier Deschamps expressed satisfaction with his team's performance: "We showed resilience and determination throughout the game. We deserved this win and we'll use it as motivation for the final."
Meanwhile, Brest manager Jean-Claude Barbot acknowledged the hard work of his players: "Our team fought valiantly, but we didn't have enough运气 or quality to overcome Rennes today."
This victory marks the end of an exciting season for Rennes, and it will undoubtedly be remembered as a memorable moment in their history. As they prepare for the final, Rennes looks forward to facing off against the best team in the league.