By Dorcas F. koji
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw following the Lions of Teranga’s disappointing campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The decision was announced after an executive committee meeting, with the federation confirming that Thiaw and his entire technical staff would leave their positions following an assessment of the team’s performances and future direction. The FSF said the move was made in the best interest of Senegalese football as it begins preparations for upcoming international competitions.
Senegal entered the tournament with high expectations after lifting the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year. However, their World Cup journey fell short of expectations, ending in the Round of 32 after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium despite holding a two-goal lead late in the match. Earlier in the competition, the West Africans also suffered defeats to France and Norway before securing progression from the group stage with a commanding victory over Iraq.
In an official statement, the federation explained that the decision followed a comprehensive review of the national team’s recent performances and long-term prospects. FSF President Abdoulaye Fall has also been tasked with overseeing a broader restructuring of the country’s national teams and is expected to provide further details during a scheduled press conference.
Attention has already turned to who could succeed Thiaw, with reports linking former France international and Dakar-born coach Patrick Vieira to the vacancy. Although no appointment has been confirmed, the federation is expected to begin its search immediately as Senegal aims to rebuild ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Thiaw’s departure brings an end to a tenure that delivered continental success but ultimately concluded with World Cup disappointment. Senegal will now look to usher in a new era as they seek to re-establish themselves among Africa’s leading football nations.
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