Senegal have sacked manager Pape Thiaw following the country’s exit from the World Cup at the Round-of-32 stage.
Thiaw, who had only been in charge since December 2024, paid the price for Senegal’s disappointing campaign in North America despite guiding the Teranga Lions into the knockout rounds.
Senegal lost their opening two Group I matches against France and Norway before a 5-0 win over Iran secured qualification as the lowest-ranked of the best third-placed teams.
Their tournament ended in dramatic fashion against Belgium in Seattle.
Senegal appeared to be cruising into the last-16 after taking a 2-0 lead with just five minutes remaining of normal time, only for Belgium to score twice late on before completing an astonishing comeback through Youri Tielemans’ extra-time penalty to seal a 3-2 win.
Senegal confirm Thiaw departure
The Senegal Football Federation confirmed Thiaw’s departure on Saturday after what it described as a “thorough evaluation of the sporting results and prospects of the national team.”
A federation statement said: “The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) informs the public that following the meeting of the Executive Committee held this Saturday July 11, 2026, it was decided to initiate a procedure to terminate the functions of the national coach, Mr Pape Thiaw, as well as his entire technical staff.
“This decision comes after the elimination of the Senegal national team in the round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“After a thorough evaluation of the sporting results and prospects of the national team, the Executive Committee deemed it necessary to initiate this procedure in the best interests of Senegalese football.”
