Contributed to 4 goals and led a crazy victory.. Malian Sinayoko steals the spotlight in France

18.10.26 FT Ligue 1 France

Paris FC

4

:

Rennes

3

Mali international Lassine Sinayoko delivered an extraordinary performance on Sunday 18 October scoring twice and providing two assists as Paris FC defeated Rennes 4-3 in a dramatic Ligue 1 encounter.

The 26 year old forward was involved in every Paris FC goal at Stade Jean Bouin, helping Liam Rosenior's side secure three important points in one of the most entertaining matches of the 2026 /27 French Ligue 1 season.

Sinayoko assisted Maxime Lopez twice before scoring a spectacular acrobatic goal and converting a stoppage time penalty to seal the victory.

His outstanding display came despite Rennes striker Estéban Lepaul scoring a remarkable hat-trick, with all three goals coming from the penalty spot.

According to Paris FC's official match report, the Malian forward played a decisive role in all four goals as the hosts recovered from their previous defeat against Lorient.

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Two assists and two goals: How Sinayoko dominated Rennes

Sinayoko made his first contribution in the 14th minute, winning possession in an advanced position before finding Maxime Lopez who finished to give Paris FC an early lead.

Rennes responded through Lepaul, who converted a penalty in the 29th minute following a foul by Pierre Lees-Melou.

However, Sinayoko again proved decisive just before half-time.

After receiving the ball from Luca Koleosho, the Malian delivered a low cross that Lopez converted from close range in the fourth minute of first-half stoppage time.

Rennes equalised once more in the 74th minute when Lepaul scored his second penalty.

Two minutes later, Sinayoko produced the most spectacular moment of the encounter.

The Paris FC striker reacted to a loose ball inside the penalty area and scored with an acrobatic overhead effort, restoring his team's advantage at 3-2.

The drama continued as Lepaul completed his hat-trick from another penalty in the 88th minute.

Just when the match appeared destined to finish level, Valentin Rongier pulled Sinayoko's shirt inside the penalty area.

Following a VAR review, Paris FC were awarded a penalty.

Sinayoko stepped forward and converted deep into stoppage time, beating Brice Samba to complete his double and secure a remarkable 4-3 victory.

Sinayoko reaches nine goal contributions in Ligue 1

The performance took Sinayoko's tally to six goals and three assists in seven league appearances this season.

With six goals, the Mali international sits second in the Ligue 1 scoring charts behind Rennes striker Estéban Lepaul, who has seven.

His impressive start follows a productive 2025 /26 campaign with Auxerre, when he recorded 12 goals and four assists.

Sinayoko scored twice against Lille on the final matchday to help Auxerre secure their Ligue 1 survival.

That form attracted attention from other clubs, including reported interest from Crystal Palace.

The forward eventually joined Paris FC in July 2026 signing a contract until June 2029.

His performances since arriving have demonstrated why the Parisian club targeted him to strengthen their attack.

Paris FC climb to second place after Rennes victory

The result provided an immediate response to Paris FC's first league defeat of the season, suffered against Lorient on 10 October.

Rosenior's team now have 14 point after seven matches, moving into second place in Ligue 1.

The victory also extended their unbeaten home record this season.

For Sinayoko, the performance represents another major contribution following his impressive start to life in Paris.

He had already played a decisive role in the club's victories over Marseille, Nice and Strasbourg, establishing himself as a central figure in their attack.

His ability to operate both as a goalscorer and a creator has provided Rosenior with greater flexibility in the final third.

What comes next for Sinayoko and Paris FC?

Paris FC will travel to face Lens at Stade Bollaert Delelis on Saturday, 24 October in their next Ligue 1 fixture.

The encounter provides Sinayoko with another opportunity to extend his goalscoring record and help his team maintain its position near the top of the standings.

For Mali, his outstanding club performances are also encouraging as the Eagles prepare for their upcoming international commitments.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Paris FC

Rennes

Ligue 1 France