Dakar, Senegal — The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has announced the termination of national team coach Pape Thiaw, effective immediately, following Senegal’s early exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Thiaw, who took the helm in December 2024, succeeded Aliou Cissé, the architect of Senegal’s triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January 2026.
The decision to dismiss Thiaw came after a series of setbacks, including Senegal’s Round of 32 elimination after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time loss to Belgium.
The defeat, which followed a 2-0 lead with five minutes remaining, was met with widespread criticism and mounting pressure on the coaching staff.
The FSF executive committee’s meeting led to the collective decision to relieve Thiaw and his coaching staff of their duties.
The reasons for the termination have not been publicly detailed, with the FSF issuing a statement outlining the initiation of proceedings. Prior to his firing, Thiaw had faced scrutiny over his handling of a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco in the AFCON final. During the match, Thiaw led his team off the pitch in protest, a move that drew both praise and criticism.
Despite the controversy, Thiaw’s appointment was seen as a positive step for the Senegalese football program, marked by a renewed sense of optimism and ambition.
However, the team’s underwhelming performance at the World Cup has prompted a shift in the federation’s strategy.
As Senegal football fans grapple with the sudden change in leadership, the nation’s football community awaits the appointment of a new coach who can steer the Lions of Teranga towards future success on the international stage.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: aljazeera
Source: Reuters
