Senegal dismisses coach Pape Thiaw following World Cup 2026 elimination
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced the termination of head coach Pape Thiaw, along with his entire technical staff, after the national team’s disappointing performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Senegal exited in the round of 32, losing 3‑2 in extra time to Belgium despite leading 2‑0 late in regulation. The campaign also featured group‑stage defeats to France and Norway, with a 5‑0 victory over Iraq securing progression as one of the best third‑placed teams. The FSF said the decision followed a thorough evaluation of sporting results and was taken in the best interests of Senegalese football. The move comes after earlier controversy surrounding Thiaw’s decision to walk off the pitch during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, a match later awarded to Morocco. Patrick Vieira has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Thiaw, and the federation plans a press conference to outline the next steps.