Arnaud Kalimuendo leads Rennes to a 5-0 victory with hat trick

In a decisive Ligue 1 match that took place in France, Rennes secured a commanding 5-0 victory against Saint-Etienne. The match was significant as it marked the return of coach Jorge Sampaoli to the sidelines after taking over Rennes just a few weeks earlier. This victory followed a challenging period for Rennes, where they had not scored in over a month and had lost their last three matches. The key turning point in the match occurred when Mathieu Cafaro of Saint-Etienne was sent off for a handball in the box, leading to a penalty shot for Rennes. Arnaud Kalimuendo capitalized on this opportunity, striking first from the penalty spot and giving Rennes a crucial early lead. The game continued to favor Rennes, culminating in them heading into the halftime break with a comfortable 2-0 advantage after Ludovic Blas scored in added time. This strong performance was pivotal for the team's morale, as it not only broke their scoring drought but also gave them momentum moving forward in the league. Following the break, Kalimuendo showcased impressive skill, netting a second goal with a well-placed finish and later converting a second penalty to secure his first hat trick in Ligue 1. Amine Gouiri also contributed to the scoreline, reminding fans of Rennes's offensive capabilities. The result elevated Rennes to 11th place in the standings, giving them a one-point lead over 12th-placed Saint-Etienne. The match highlighted both the individual brilliance of Kalimuendo and the effectiveness of Sampaoli's coaching, as he began to realize his vision for the team. Having previously coached various clubs, including a national team in the World Cup, Sampaoli's return to Ligue 1 promised to bring excitement and tactical prowess. This match not only served as a critical boost for Rennes at a difficult time but also emphasized their potential in Ligue 1 as they look to improve their standings in future matches.