Senegal Dismiss Pape Thiaw After Round of 32 Elimination at World Cup

Senegal Football Federation Announces Departure of Head Coach Pape Thiaw After World Cup Campaign

The Senegal Football Federation has confirmed the dismissal of head coach Pape Thiaw following the national team’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In an official statement released on Sunday, the federation said the decision was made after a comprehensive review of the team’s sporting performance and its future direction.

“After a thorough evaluation of the sporting results and the future of the national team, Pape Thiaw has been relieved of his duties as head coach,” the federation said.

Senegal’s World Cup campaign ended in the Round of 32 after a defeat to Belgium.

The Lions of Teranga advanced to the knockout stage as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams after finishing behind France and Norway in Group I, with their only group-stage victory coming against Iraq.

Thiaw initially assumed the role of interim head coach after serving as an assistant before being appointed permanently in 2024. During his tenure, he oversaw 25 matches, recording 15 victories, four draws and six defeats.

His departure adds Senegal to the growing list of nations that have changed managers following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Several national teams have parted ways with their head coaches after the tournament as federations begin preparations for the next international cycle.

The Senegal Football Federation has not yet announced a successor to Thiaw.