Brice Samba
FRA
Backup role for France
Samba has been named in France's World Cup squad as Mike Maignan's primary backup and is expected to feature in at least one group stage fixture.
Analysis: Samba ends what has been a standout individual campaign with Rennes, recording 87 saves and 10 clean sheets across 32 Ligue 1 appearances in a season that firmly established him as one of the best goalkeepers in the division. The goalie heads into the World Cup highly motivated to make the most of any opportunity that comes his way after a season that has shown he is more than capable of performing at the highest level, and his presence gives France excellent depth and quality in the goalkeeping department. Samba will be a trusted presence in the squad and a ready-made option should Mike Maignan face any fitness concerns during the tournament.
Returns from suspension
Samba has served his one-match suspension and is no longer suspended.
Analysis: Samba ends what has been a standout individual campaign with 87 saves and 20 clearances across 32 Ligue 1 appearances, keeping 10 clean sheets in a season that has firmly confirmed him as one of the best goalkeepers in the division. The focus now shifts to the World Cup with France this summer, where Samba is expected to serve as backup to Mike Maignan while likely getting the opportunity to start in one of the three group stage fixtures, giving him a significant platform to showcase his qualities on the biggest stage.
Concedes goal against Paris FC
Samba (suspension) had no saves and allowed one goal in Sunday's 2-1 win over Paris FC.
Analysis: Samba had a disappointing outing, facing just one shot on target and failing to stop it despite the effort being directed close to him. The Rennes goalkeeper has endured an inconsistent season overall, recording 10 clean sheets in 32 matches but also conceding 44 goals. His 66.4 percent save rate sits around the middle of the league, though he has remained busy throughout the campaign with 134 shots faced. Samba's next fixture will come against Marseille, who sit one place below Rennes in sixth and have scored 60 goals this season, making it a difficult matchup.
Will miss OM game
Samba is set to be suspended after accumulating five yellow cards in French competitions, the league announced.
Analysis: Samba picked up his fifth yellow card in French competitions and is now suspended for the season finale against his former club Marseille on May 17. The number one goalie has been an undisputed starter between the posts this season and his absence guarantees a shake-up in the starting XI, with Mathys Silistrie expected to start at the Velodrome.
Concedes four to Lyon
Samba allowed four goals while making five saves during Sunday's 4-2 loss to Lyon.
Analysis: Samba allowed two goals in each half as Rennes dropped all three points Sunday. The keeper has allowed five goals while combining for 11 saves and keeping a clean sheet over his last three starts. Rennes take on Paris FC next weekend.
Six saves in 2-1 win
Samba made six saves and allowed one goal in Sunday's 2-1 win against Nantes.
Analysis: Samba made six saves to help his side to a 2-1 victory over Nantes. The keeper has kept 10 clean sheets in his 30 games this season, keeping only one in his last four matches. This is the fourth time this season taht he has made six or more saves.
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