The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw and his entire technical staff following the nation’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The decision follows Senegal’s disappointing Round of 32 elimination, ending Thiaw’s tenure after less than two years leading the Teranga Lions.
Senegal entered the tournament as one of Africa’s leading contenders and advanced from the group stage. However, their campaign ended heartbreakingly after surrendering a two-goal lead and losing 3-2 to Belgium in the knockout stage.
The defeat drew widespread criticism from supporters and pundits, raising questions about the team’s tactics, substitutions, and inability to close out the match.
After the loss, pressure mounted on the federation to overhaul the national team’s technical setup.
The FSF has responded by relieving Thiaw and his entire backroom staff as it begins preparations for a new chapter.
Thiaw succeeded Aliou Cissé as Senegal’s head coach in 2024 and was tasked with building on the country’s emergence as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
During his spell in charge, he guided the Teranga Lions to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and led the team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite those accomplishments, the federation believes a leadership change is necessary as Senegal shifts focus to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and the next FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
The search for a new head coach is now expected to begin, with the federation aiming to appoint a successor capable of restoring confidence within the squad and guiding Senegal back to challenging for major international honors.
The FSF is expected to unveil its plans for a replacement in the coming weeks as preparations continue for the team’s next competitive fixtures.
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