Udinese coach Francesco Guidolin was hoping to secure qualification into the knock-out stages of the Europa League, but a scoreless draw against Rennes on Wednesday evening has almost seen the club achieve its first objective.

The tactician was hoping for a repeat of the 2-1 win obtained earlier in the season, but will have to settle with a draw.

"This is a tough group for Udinese and now the qualification is near," Guidolin told ANSA. "But it is best not to say anything else and let our actions speak for ourselves.

"Tonight we wanted to win, we took some risks, but our performance was positive."

The Fruili-based outfit face Celtic at home in their final Europa League fixture on December 15, requiring a point to ensure their progression. The side sit in second place on eight points from five matches, two points behind Group I leaders Atletico Madrid.