Senegal have parted ways with head coach Pape Thiaw following the Teranga Lions’ disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced the decision after the team’s dramatic Round of 32 defeat to Belgium, bringing Thiaw’s tenure to an abrupt end.
Senegal appeared to be on course for a place in the last 16 after establishing a commanding 2-0 advantage.
However, Belgium mounted a remarkable late comeback, scoring three goals to secure a 3-2 victory and eliminate the African giants from the tournament.
The defeat sparked widespread criticism and reportedly contributed to internal tensions within the squad.
Midfielder Pape Gueye subsequently announced his retirement from international football following a reported disagreement with Thiaw after the World Cup exit.
According to French sports outlet L’Equipe, the FSF confirmed on Sunday, July 12, that it had begun the process of terminating the contracts of Thiaw and his entire technical team.
“Following the meeting of the Executive Committee (of the FSF), it was decided to initiate a procedure to terminate the functions of national coach Pape Thiaw as well as the entire technical staff,” a section of the release stated.
Attention has now turned to the search for a new head coach, with former Crystal Palace and Genoa manager Patrick Vieira emerging as the leading candidate to succeed Thiaw.
The appointment of a new manager is expected to mark the beginning of a rebuilding process as Senegal seek to recover from their World Cup disappointment and prepare for future international competitions.
