Mevlut Erding's first goal for Rennes was enough to claim all three points against bottom side Sochaux.
The Turkish forward, who signed from Paris St-Germain in January, headed in a Jonathan Pitroipa cross after 16 minutes.
Although Frédéric Antonetti's side were well worth their half-time lead, they were made to sweat for the win after the break.
Sochaux piled forward in search of an equaliser; Sloan Privat and Ryad Boudebouz went close but Rennes hung on.
Rennes have temporarily gone level on points with Lille, who occupy the final Champions League place.
Written by
Robert Summerscales
Robert Summerscales
