Senegal Sacks Coach Pape Thiaw, Technical Staff After Disappointing 2026 World Cup Campaign

Senegal Sacks Coach Pape Thiaw, Technical Staff After Disappointing 2026 World Cup Campaign

Sampson Adedeji 

 The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) has announced the immediate dismissal of head coach Pape Thiaw and his entire technical staff, bringing a swift end to his tenure with the national team, the Lions of Teranga, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The decision, confirmed by the FSF on Sunday, comes in the wake of Senegal’s underwhelming performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and finals campaign.

 The Lions, traditionally one of Africa’s strongest sides and quarter-finalists at the 2022 tournament in Qatar, failed to meet expectations, prompting federation officials to seek a fresh direction.

“Following a thorough evaluation of the team’s recent results and overall campaign, the FSF has decided to terminate the contract of head coach Pape Thiaw and his technical team with immediate effect,” a brief statement from the federation read.

Thiaw, who took charge of the senior national team in 2024, oversaw a squad rich in talent including established stars from Europe’s top leagues.

 However, inconsistent performances and early exits from key competitions ultimately led to his removal.

The FSF has not yet named an interim or permanent replacement, but sources close to the federation indicate that a comprehensive search for a new coach will begin immediately to prepare Senegal for upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers and future international commitments.