Senegal dismisses coach Pape Thiaw

Senegal’s national football coach, Pape Thiaw, has been dismissed following the team’s exit from the 2026 World Cup, the Senegalese Football Federation announced on Monday.

Thiaw, who took charge in December 2024, was removed after Senegal’s round of 32 elimination. Senegal had beaten Iraq 5-0 in the group stage but lost 3-2 to Belgium in the knockout round.

The federation said the decision was “in the best interests of Senegalese football”.

Thiaw’s tenure was marked by controversy during last year’s Africa Cup of Nations. Senegal were stripped of their title after players briefly left the field at Thiaw’s request during the final. The incident sparked debate and led to Senegal losing the championship.

Thiaw’s record with the Teranga Lions included several competitive performances, but the federation decided to make a change after the World Cup exit. His contract was terminated immediately.

No replacement has been announced. The federation is expected to begin a search for a new coach in the coming weeks.

Senegal’s World Cup campaign had raised hopes after the emphatic 5-0 victory over Iraq, but the narrow defeat to Belgium ended their run. The team had reached the round of 32 as one of the African teams to advance.

Thiaw has not yet commented on his dismissal.

SOURCE: AFP