Senegal Sack Pape Thiaw After World Cup Exit

Teranga Lions part ways with manager following disappointing knockout-stage elimination

Senegal have dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw following the team’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending his time in charge after less than two years.

The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) announced the decision after reviewing the national team’s performances and future plans, saying the move was made “in the best interests of Senegalese football.”

Thiaw had been appointed as Senegal’s manager in December 2024 and guided the Teranga Lions through a challenging World Cup campaign that ended at the last-32 stage.

Senegal’s mixed World Cup campaign

Senegal began the tournament with difficult defeats against France and Norway in their opening two group matches.

However, the African side responded strongly in their final group game, producing a dominant 5-0 victory over Iraq to secure qualification as one of the best third-placed teams.

Their knockout-stage match against Belgium looked promising after Senegal built a 2-0 lead, but they were unable to hold on.

Belgium fought back with two late goals before scoring a decisive penalty in extra time to complete a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory and eliminate Senegal from the competition.

Player frustration after elimination

Following the World Cup disappointment, Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye expressed his frustration with the current situation, saying he would step away from international football while the existing management structure remained in place.

His comments reflected growing concerns around the direction of the national team after the disappointing tournament result.

Thiaw’s controversial Afcon history

Thiaw’s departure comes after a turbulent period that also included controversy surrounding Senegal’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.

During the Afcon final against Morocco in January, Thiaw instructed his players to leave the pitch after Morocco were awarded a late penalty.

The match was delayed for around 17 minutes before Senegal returned to the field. Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, and Senegal eventually won the match in extra time through Pape Gueye.

However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later overturned the result in March and declared Morocco the winners of the tournament.

Senegal have since appealed the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in an attempt to regain the title.

Senegal search for new direction

The FSF’s decision marks a new chapter for Senegal as they look to rebuild ahead of future international competitions.

The Teranga Lions remain one of Africa’s strongest football nations, but the recent World Cup disappointment and ongoing Afcon dispute have created pressure for changes within the team.

The federation will now begin the search for a new coach to lead Senegal into the next phase of their international football journey.