Adedokun Waliyu The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has dismissed national team head coach Pape Thiaw following the country’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement, the federation announced that its executive committee had resolved to begin the process of relieving Thiaw and his entire coaching staff of their duties.
The FSF also disclosed that its president, Abdoulaye Fall, will address the media on Monday to explain the reasons behind the decision and outline the federation’s plans for the future of the national team.
Thiaw, 45, a former Senegal international, was appointed head coach in 2024. However, he paid the price for Senegal’s underwhelming World Cup campaign.
The Lions of Teranga lost two of their group-stage matches against France and Norway before securing qualification for the knockout stage with an emphatic 5–0 victory over Iraq.
Their World Cup journey came to an end in the Round of 32 after a dramatic 3–2 extra-time defeat to Belgium. Senegal appeared destined for victory after taking a 2–0 lead, but Belgium staged a remarkable comeback, scoring twice late in regulation time before netting the winner in extra time.
Despite the disappointing World Cup performance, Thiaw enjoyed notable success during his tenure. Under his leadership, Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations in January. However, the team was later stripped of the title as punishment for walking off the pitch during the chaotic final against Morocco.
The Senegalese Football Federation is expected to announce further decisions regarding the team’s future after the president’s scheduled press conference.
