Senegal have parted ways with head coach Pape Thiaw following the national team's elimination at the last-32 stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Thiaw had been appointed in December 2024, but his tenure ended after a turbulent tournament exit. The Teranga Lions lost their opening two group matches against France and Norway before recovering to thrash Iraq 5-0, scraping through to the knockout round as one of the best third-placed sides.

Their tournament ended in dramatic fashion, however. Senegal led Belgium 2-0 in the last-32 before conceding twice in the closing stages and a penalty in extra time, going down 3-2.

Federation cites sporting interests

The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) announced the dismissal, stating that