Morocco’s Gessime Yassine earns emotional World Cup call-up

Moroccan winger Gessime Yassine has completed a remarkable rise to the senior national team after being named in Morocco’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a moment that left his family overwhelmed with emotion.

The 20-year-old, who won the U20 World Cup under coach Mohamed Ouahbi last year, is now preparing for the biggest stage in international football under the same manager.

His inclusion in Morocco’s World Cup squad quickly became one of the most talked-about stories on Moroccan social media after a video captured the emotional reaction of his parents during the squad announcement.

As Yassine’s name was read out among the selected players, his mother broke down in tears while celebrating her son’s achievement.

“You went out and earned your place, you are exceptional,” she said through tears of joy.

His father also shared an emotional tribute to the young attacker, praising both his success and his connection to his family.

“Gessime, I can’t find the words to describe the immense joy I feel. It makes me so happy to see you like this; you’ve achieved your dream. You have a big heart, and you haven’t forgotten your family.”

The scenes quickly spread online and highlighted the speed of Yassine’s progression in recent months. Only half a year ago, the winger was still playing in Ligue 2 with USL Dunkerque before earning a move to RC Strasbourg during the winter transfer window.

Since arriving in Ligue 1, the Moroccan youngster has managed to establish himself gradually, making 12 appearances and registering two assists during the second half of the season.

Yassine also impressed during Morocco’s March friendly matches against Ecuador and Paraguay, where he earned his first senior international caps.

His performances convinced Ouahbi to continue placing trust in the young forward, who also developed a promising understanding on the flank alongside Moroccan captain Achraf Hakimi.

Fast, technically gifted and confident in one-on-one situations, Yassine is increasingly viewed as one of the emerging talents within Morocco’s new generation of attacking players.

He is also the only member of Morocco’s successful U20 side to make the senior World Cup squad, underlining the confidence the coaching staff has placed in him ahead of the tournament in the United States.

At just 20 years old, Yassine now heads into the World Cup as one of the young Moroccan players attracting growing attention ahead of the competition.