Senegal Dismisses Pape Thiaw after World Cup exit

By Amaechi Agbo

Senegal Football Federation has terminated the contract if coach Pape Thiaw after the Terenga Lions exited the 2026 World Cup in North America
The African champions lost their Round of 32 match 3-2 to Belgium to exit the competition in a game they were in control until the dying minutes
Announcing the decision on Sunday, the Federation said Those and all his coach staff are affected by the decision
“Following a meeting of the executive committee, it was decided to initiate proceedings to relieve national team coach Pape Thiaw, as well as the entire coaching staff, of their duties,” the federation said in a statement.
The federation added that its president, Abdoulaye Fall, would address a press conference on Monday to explain the reasons for the decision and outline the team’s future plans.
Thiaw, 45, a former Senegal international, was appointed national team coach in 2024.
He joined list of national team coaches who left their positions after their countries were eliminated from 2026 World Cup.
Senegal endured a disappointing World Cup campaign, losing to France and Norway in the group stage before a 5-0 victory over Iraq secured qualification for the knockout stage.
The Lions of Teranga were eliminated in the Round of 32 after surrendering a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 to Belgium after extra time. Senegal had been 2-0 ahead until the 86th minute.
Thiaw guided Senegal to the Africa Cup of Nations final in January, but the team was later stripped of the title after walking off the pitch during the controversial final against Morocco.