### Rennes Beats Nice 3-0 in Extra Time, Advances to Europa League

On Sunday evening, the French club Rennes secured their place in Europe's top competition with a stunning 3-0 victory over Nice in extra time. This victory not only lifts Rennes' spirits but also positions them among the elite clubs vying for spots in the prestigious UEFA Europa League.

The match started with both teams displaying strong attacking prowess, with Rennes capitalizing on several chances early on. In the 22nd minute, Rennes striker Mathieu Valbuena scored from close range, putting the visitors ahead. The lead was maintained until halftime, as both sides continued to create chances without scoring.

In the second half, Nice showed resilience and improved their defensive performance, limiting Rennes' chances of finding the back of the net. However, it wasn't long before Rennes found themselves level again. In the 65th minute, substitute Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang equalized for Rennes, bringing the score to 1-1.

The tension increased as the game entered extra time, with both teams determined to secure the win. It was during this period that Rennes finally broke through. In the 108th minute, Valbuena scored his second goal of the match, converting a penalty kick after being fouled inside the box. This goal sealed the victory for Rennes, lifting them to the top of Group G in the Europa League standings.

### Implications for Rennes

This victory is significant for Rennes, who had been struggling in recent seasons due to financial issues and poor performances. Their success in reaching the Europa League final marks a turning point in their fortunes. The club has shown resilience under new management and a renewed focus on quality football, which has paid off in this crucial moment.

For Nice, the defeat is a blow to their hopes of qualifying for the Europa League. They will need to work hard to improve if they want to stay competitive in European competitions, especially given the strong field of teams in Group G.

### Next Steps

With Rennes securing their spot in the Europa League, the next challenge lies in preparing for their upcoming matches. The team will face a tough group, including FC Porto, Benfica, and Inter Milan, all of whom have strong records in European competitions.

As for Nice, they will look to bounce back quickly and find ways to improve their performance. The disappointment of missing out on the Europa League could motivate them to push harder and achieve better results in future matches.

Overall, this victory for Rennes represents a positive step forward for the club and sets the stage for a thrilling campaign in the Europa League.