Could Rennes finally break the curse? After 19 straight European defeats, Haise saw his side snatch a 2‑1 comeback win over OFI Crete on Thursday, ending the nightmare.
The manager had felt the weight of a 19‑match European drought as Rennes fell behind early at Roazhon Park. Yet Nagida’s 76th‑minute strike and Aït Boutlal’s header in stoppage time flipped the script, delivering a much‑needed 2‑1 triumph and, in my view, proving Haise’s resolve.
When the winning goal went in, Haise’s grin on the sidelines said it all – relief washed over him. He joked on Canal+ that he once thought only the Champions League offered a chance to win, then added, “Now I feel we can also conquer the Europa League.”
Finally, I’ll keep going a bit longer – can we reach the knockout stage?
He thanked his squad, recalling the 89th‑minute header from Boulaye Dia that made him consider handing European fixtures to his staff. “Looks like I’ll stick around a bit longer,” he told the broadcaster.
The win also boosts the team’s standing. After a goalless draw at Sturm Graz on matchday one, Rennes sit 13th of 36 in the Europa League group and face a tough trip to Juventus Thursday. Meanwhile, the Italian side leads the group after two games.