The Senegalese Football Federation has terminated the contract of head coach Pape Thiaw and dismissed his entire technical staff following the national team’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the round of 32 stage.
The move, announced after an emergency executive meeting in Dakar, comes in the wake of Senegal’s disappointing campaign, which ended with a dramatic last-32 defeat to Belgium. Despite entering the tournament as recent Africa Cup of Nations champions and carrying high expectations, the Teranga Lions faced intense criticism over tactical decisions, player management, and internal tensions.
Thiaw, who had been in charge since late 2024, saw his tenure end as the federation cited the need for a fresh direction in the best interests of Senegalese football. Federation president Abdoulaye Sall is expected to provide further details on the team’s future plans in the coming days.
