**Rennes Claim Victory in Ligue 1 Final Round as Ajaccio Drop Down**

**Rennes Secure Top-Tier Finish with 1-0 Win**

Rennes capped off a thrilling Ligue 1 season with a 1-0 victory over Nîmes Olympique in the final round, securing their place in the top tier of French football. The match, held at Stade de la Route de la Marine, saw Rennes showcase their defensive resilience, despite being forced to play much of the game with 10 men after the 54th-minute dismissal of forward Gaëtan Laborde. The goal came courtesy of Terem Moffi, who scored the decisive goal in the 52nd minute, capping off a clinical counter-attack. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Rennes held on to their lead, thanks to a solid defensive effort led by goalkeeper Éric Bailly. This win ensures Rennes will finish in fourth place, securing a direct spot in next season’s Champions League.

**Ajaccio’s Despair as Relegation is Confirmed**

In the other fixture, Ajaccio’s hopes of avoiding relegation were dashed as they fell to a 1-0 loss at Montpellier HSC. Despite a valiant effort, Ajaccio’s late surge wasn’t enough to overturn a single-digit deficit. The decisive goal came from Montpellier’s Boulaye Dia, who netted in the 73rd minute. Ajaccio, who had been battling to avoid dropping back to Ligue 2, will now join Pau FC in the third division after a disappointing end to their season. Manager Olivier Guénaux expressed his disappointment, calling the result "unjust" and dedicating the season to the club’s loyal fans. Ajaccio’s relegation marks the end of an era for a club that has been a consistent presence in French football.

**Broader Implications and Reactions**

Rennes’ victory not only guarantees them a place in Europe’s elite competition but also solidifies their position as a potential dark horse in next season’s Champions League. Meanwhile, Ajaccio’s relegation brings an end to their two-season stay in Ligue 1, leaving fans heartbroken. The result also has significant implications for both clubs’ transfer strategies, with Rennes likely looking to strengthen their squad ahead of their Champions League campaign, while Ajaccio will need to rebuild and regroup in the lower divisions.

In summary, the final round of Ligue 1 brought mixed emotions, with Rennes celebrating their success and Ajaccio facing an uncertain future. Both clubs will have their fans rooting for them in the coming seasons, but for now, Rennes’ hard-earned victory is the headline story.