LThe Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has sacked head coach Pape Thiaw after the Teranga Lions’ disappointing campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in the Round of 32.
Gatekeepers Ness reports that the decision was announced on Saturday following a review of the team’s performance at the tournament.
Senegal entered the World Cup with high expectations after winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, but the team struggled in the group stage, suffering defeats to France and Norway before defeating Iraq to reach the knockout round. Their campaign came to an end after squandering a 2-0 lead in a dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32.
The FSF said the decision to part ways with the 45-year-old coach followed a comprehensive assessment of the national team’s performance. Thiaw’s position had also come under scrutiny after he received a five-match suspension linked to disciplinary issues during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
Reports indicate that former France international and ex-Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira, who was born in Dakar, is among the leading candidates to succeed Thiaw. The Senegalese Football Federation is expected to provide further details on its plans during a press conference.
