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French sports daily L’Équipe singled out young attacker Yassine Gessime as the standout performer in RC Strasbourg Alsace’s 2–1 win over Stade de Reims in the quarter-finals of the Coupe de France.
Strasbourg had a difficult evening at the Stade de la Meinau, struggling to break down a disciplined Reims side for much of the match. But L’Équipe wrote in its match report that “the light mainly came from him,” pointing to the impact made by the 20-year-old winger.
The Alsatian club eventually secured its place in the semi-finals thanks to two late penalties converted by Joaquín Panichelli in the 83rd minute and Julio Enciso four minutes later.
Gessime Yassine. 💎
The type of winger that gets you out of your seat. 👏
— Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace English (@RCSA_English) March 4, 2026
Guessime’s energy and creativity
While several Strasbourg players struggled to find space against a deep Reims defense, Gessime stood out with his direct style.
The winger was involved in many of Strasbourg’s best moments, delivering dangerous crosses early in the match, taking on defenders, and constantly looking to push the tempo. L’Équipe noted that his energy and constant activity were impossible to miss during a match that often lacked attacking inspiration.
He also played a part in the two decisive moments late in the game. One of the free kicks he won eventually led to the first penalty, and later he helped launch the move that ended with the second spot kick after setting up Datro Fofana.
Gessime only arrived in Strasbourg during the January transfer window from USL Dunkerque, but his inspired performance quickly made an impression at the Meinau.
Strasbourg coach Gary O’Neil admitted after the match that he had been eager to see what the young winger could offer. “I was impatient to see him, to see what he could bring,” O’Neil said. “Against a low block he can make the difference. I wasn’t disappointed.”
The rising winger represents Morocco at the U20 level and is considered one of the country’s promising young prospects. He has 16 caps and four goals for the Morocco U20 side, and he was part of the team that won the historic 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup last year.
Still only 20, Gessime has played limited minutes in Ligue 1 so far, but performances like Tuesday’s suggest he could soon play a larger role as Strasbourg continues their push for a place in the Coupe de France final. And could be the future star of the Atlas Lions.
Read also: Yassine Gessime Opens Up on Morocco’s Unexpected U20 World Cup Win and Fan Support
