Senegal Football Federation (FSF) has dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw following the Teranga Lions’ exit from the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The federation announced the decision after what it described as a comprehensive review of the team’s performance and future prospects, stating that the move was made in the best Interest of Senegalese football.
Thiaw, who took charge of the national team in December 2024, oversaw a difficult World Cup campaign. Senegal lost their opening Group matches to France and Norway before defeating Iraq 5-0 to secure one of the best third-placed qualification spots for the knockout stage.
In the Round of 32, Senegal surrendered a two-goal lead against Belgium, conceding two late goals before losing 3-2 after extra time.
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Following the World Cup elimination, midfielder Pape Gueye announced he would take a break from international football until changes were made to the team’s coaching setup.
The dismissal comes amid continued controversy over Senegal’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco. During the match, Thiaw led his players off the pitch after Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty. The team later returned after a 17-minute delay, with Senegal initially winning the match after Brahim Diaz’s penalty was saved and Gueye scored the extra-time winner.
However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later overturned the result and awarded the title to Morocco. Senegal has appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and is seeking to have the AFCON title restored.
BBC
