In round twelve, Lyon, who had only managed four draws and six losses this season, were at the bottom of the rankings until they defeated Stade Rennes 1-0 at Roazhon Park. Rennes edged closer to the relegation zone after suffering their fourth loss in their previous five games—a stretch during which they have failed to achieve a victory.

After barely five minutes, Bruno Genesio's squad was down to 10 men after Ivorian Guela Doue was sent off for a rough tackle on Nicolás Tagliafico of Argentina. In the 67th minute, Irishman Jake O'Brien joined the game and headed the ball into the net after Sael Kumbedi broke free down the right flank and sent a cross to the far post. The game was tense the entire time, but Lyon won to raise their spirits. They currently have one game remaining against Marseille and are five points out of safety.