Senegal have sacked manager Pape Thiaw following their elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the round of 32. The decision was announced by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) after an executive committee meeting on July 11, 2026.
World Cup campaign and elimination
Thiaw, who took charge in December 2024, led Senegal through a turbulent World Cup campaign. The Teranga Lions lost their opening two Group I matches against France and Norway, but a 5-0 victory over Iran secured their place as the lowest-ranked best third-placed team, advancing to the knockout stage.
In the round-of-32 match in Seattle, Senegal led Belgium 2-0 with just five minutes remaining in regulation time. However, Belgium scored two late goals to force extra time, and a penalty from Youri Tielemans in the final moments of extra time sealed a 3-2 defeat for Senegal.
Federation decision
The FSF confirmed the removal of Thiaw and his entire technical staff following what it described as a "thorough evaluation of the sporting results and prospects of the national team." A statement read: "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."
Impact and next steps
The dismissal ends Thiaw's brief tenure of less than two years. Senegal will now begin a search for a new head coach as they look ahead to future competitions, including qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations. The federation has not yet announced an interim replacement or a timeline for appointing a permanent manager.
