Bordeaux close in on Champions League with win at Rennes

PARIS (Reuters) - A powerful close range volley by Alou Diarra helped Girondins Bordeaux take a major step towards direct qualification for the Champions League with a 2-0 win at fifth-placed Stade Rennes on Saturday.

The 26-year-old midfielder was left unmarked when he struck in the 18th minute after a corner by Brazilian Geraldo Wendel, whose compatriot Fernando sealed Bordeaux's win when he headed home another Wendel corner five minutes from time.

Rennes, who were on a run of six games without defeat, had stepped up a gear in the second half but were unable to break down the visitors' solid defence.

The win consolidates second place for Bordeaux with six matches left since they now have a nine-point lead over third-placed Nancy, who face a tricky home game on Sunday against a Paris St Germain side fighting against relegation.

Also on Sunday, leaders Olympique Lyon travel to fourth-placed Olympique Marseille.

The six times French champions are aiming to restore a nine-point lead at the top with a victory while Marseille, eyeing a place in the Champions League qualifying round, must win to move level on points with Nancy.