Senegalese forward Idrissa Gueye makes Udinese debut in Coppa Italia 

Idrissa Gueye stepped onto the pitch for the first time in Udinese colours during Tuesday’s Coppa Italia clash, helping his side secure a 2-1 victory against Palermo and advance to the next round of the competition.

The 19-year-old Senegalese forward, on loan from Metz, had been included in the squad for Udinese’s weekend trip to AC Milan but did not feature in the 3-0 defeat at San Siro.

This time, however, head coach Kosta Runjaic gave him his long-awaited debut.

Gueye was introduced in the 70th minute, bringing fresh energy to the attack as Udinese held on to their narrow lead.

The Friulani had gone into the match determined to put aside their league setback and deliver a strong performance in front of their home supporters.

Palermo proved resilient opponents, but Udinese’s sharper finishing made the difference, ensuring progression to the quarter-finals of the domestic cup.

For Gueye, it marked the start of his journey in Italian football after moving from Ligue 1 to Serie A on a temporary deal.

His debut also highlighted the club’s willingness to integrate young talent into the senior set-up.

Runjaic, speaking after the match, expressed satisfaction with the team’s response following their weekend defeat and stressed the importance of giving opportunities to emerging players.

While Gueye’s cameo did not bring a decisive moment, his involvement was a positive sign of the trust placed in him by the coaching staff.

The victory maintains Udinese’s hopes of a deep cup run, providing an additional boost to a side balancing domestic league challenges with knockout competition.

For the teenager, the occasion was an important first step toward establishing himself in Italian football.

#UdinesePalermo 2-1

90+7 | Through to the next round! Juventus next 💪⚪️⚫️
#ForzaUdinese #AlèUdin pic.twitter.com/WRZ2UcAEEq

— Udinese Calcio (@Udinese_1896) September 23, 2025

Udinese now shift their focus back to Serie A, where they face Sassuolo on Sunday.

Gueye will be eager to build on his debut and potentially earn more minutes as the season progresses.

At just 19, the Senegalese forward still has much to prove, but his introduction in a competitive fixture reflects both his potential and the opportunities awaiting him in Udine.

Tuesday’s win not only secured qualification for the next round but also marked the beginning of Gueye’s adventure in Italian football.