More than 16,000 fans filled the stands at the Abbé-Deschamps stadium to pay tribute to Djibril Cissé, as a host of football legends and former teammates gathered on the pitch to celebrate the former French striker’s illustrious career in a jubilant testimonial match.
The atmosphere was electric as familiar names returned to the field in honour of the man who once set Ligue 1 alight in the colours of Auxerre and beyond.
From iconic forwards to midfield maestros, the match served as both spectacle and sentimental celebration, giving fans a rare chance to see their heroes in action once more.
Thierry Henry wasted no time reminding everyone of his class, curling an effort past former Auxerre goalkeeper Fabien Cool, despite the veteran shot-stopper showing he still has sharp reflexes.
Cool, ever the competitor, took the occasion seriously enough to publicly challenge referee Gilles Veyssière after awarding a questionable penalty to Bernard Mendy, prompting laughter from both dugouts.
Robert Pirès, a regular figure at testimonial matches, was also on the teamsheet, adding a sense of familiarity to the event.
Yann Lachuer, a pivotal figure in Cissé’s early career, rolled back the years with a goal created by none other than the man of the moment himself—a poetic reversal of their roles from the 2000s.
Basile Boli, an enduring symbol of Marseille’s European triumph in 1993, received a warm reception from the Auxerre faithful, underlining the unity and mutual respect among the players and supporters.
Meanwhile, Jean-Alain Boumsong showed he may have shed a few pounds since retirement, but none of his ability to halt an attacking charge—stopping Didier Drogba with a typically solid intervention.
Benoît Pedretti looked remarkably unchanged, a near-carbon copy of his playing days, while Gauthier Hein captured attention for his eye-catching hairstyle, stealing the limelight from Pierre Bouby in the battle of the hair dye.
Among the surprises of the afternoon was Han-Noah Massengo’s presence—not as a player, but as a cameraman. Draped with camera gear, the Auxerre midfielder documented the event up close, capturing what promises to be a treasured behind-the-scenes collection of footage.
Cissé, never one to shy away from the spotlight, stepped up to the DJ booth in full kit during the post-match festivities, proving that his flair isn’t limited to the football pitch.
His vibrant energy fuelled the celebratory mood, turning the stadium into a dance floor long after the final whistle.
Emotion reached its peak during a heartfelt tribute from Cissé’s family, played on the stadium screen. The moment was deeply moving for the home crowd, many of whom have followed Cissé’s journey from a teenage prodigy to a global football figure.
But it was the official renaming of Auxerre’s training facility as the “Djibril Cissé Pyramid” that truly left the stadium breathless. The announcement was met with roaring applause and more than a few teary eyes.
Djibril Cissé’s jubilee was not just a nostalgic evening of football; it was a reminder of how one player’s career can unite generations.
From thunderous goals to outrageous hairstyles and unforgettable celebrations, Cissé left an indelible mark on French football—and his farewell was every bit as memorable as his career.
Quand ton père te fait une passe décisive… 🤩😍
Cassius Cissé !! @AJA @DjibrilCisse pic.twitter.com/YYpnG532Ub
— la chaine L'Équipe (@lachainelequipe) May 27, 2025
