A stunning second-half performance saw Rennes come from 2-0 down to beat Troyes in Ligue 1 this afternoon.

Benjamin Nivet put the home side ahead after 24 minutes, heading the ball past Benoit Costil.

Troyes continued to look the more threatening of the two sides, and doubled their advantage in the 40th minute, Stephane Darbion heading in a Jean-Christophe Bahebeck cross.

The visitors started the second half brightly. Rennes were awarded a free kick after Fabrice N'Sakala fouled Kevin Theophile-Catherine. Romain Alessandrini stepped up with a stunning free kick to bring Rennes back into the match.

Julien Feret leveled the score inside the last 10 minutes to give Rennes hope of a win.

The resurgent visitors pressed for a winning goal, until Jonathan Pitroipa struck from outside the box to complete a stunning comeback.

The defeat leaves Troyes in the relegation places, eight points from safety.