After a thrilling 2-2 draw on the pitch of the Stade Vélodrome, Yassine Gessime did not hide his satisfaction. Coming on with infectious determination, the young striker was one of the key players in securing the precious point for RC Strasbourg during this challenging away match. Despite the electric atmosphere in Marseille, Gessime managed to keep his cool, shaking up the hierarchy and allowing his team to believe in a comeback until the very end of stoppage time.
nnnnWhen asked about the instructions he received before entering the game, the player emphasized the trust his coaching staff has in him. This freedom of action seems to be the driving force behind his effectiveness:
nnnnnnnnn“The coach told me to enjoy myself and to be carefree, that’s what gives me strength. When I’m on the pitch, I don’t hear the atmosphere, I play my game and I focus on the play.”
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Gessime also reflected on the decisive penalty action that sealed the score, while placing this performance in a broader context of renewal for the Alsatian club. Beyond the pitch, the emotion was palpable for someone who played in front of his loved ones:
nnnnnnnnn“I saw that the ball was in the air so I put my foot in to get ahead. We came on to try to make a difference, Nanasi scored, and I won a penalty. It feels good, we’re starting to lift our heads after the defeats against Paris and Le Havre.”
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nnnnn“I dreamed of playing here at the Vélodrome. I have been coming to this stadium since my childhood, and today my family and loved ones were in the stands, it’s a dream to have played in front of them.”
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On another note, the young talent wanted to commend the quality of his welcome within the Strasbourg dressing room. He explained that his integration was greatly facilitated by the kindness of his new teammates, particularly by the presence of Samir El Mourabit. The two players know each other well from their time together in the Moroccan U20 national team, a bond that is now reflected in a “tight-knit group” that promises bright days ahead for the Alsatian club.
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