By Nadia Ntiamoah
Senegal have become the first major African nation to make sweeping changes to their technical leadership following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) dismissing head coach Pape Thiaw and his entire backroom staff after the country’s disappointing Round of 32 exit.
The decision signals the end of Thiaw’s tenure less than two years after he succeeded long-serving coach Aliou Cissé, as federation officials seek to rebuild the Lions of Teranga ahead of upcoming continental and international competitions.
Senegal arrived at the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup carrying high expectations after successfully progressing from the group stage and being regarded as one of Africa’s strongest contenders.
However, their hopes of a deep run in the tournament were dashed in dramatic fashion when they surrendered a two-goal advantage to lose 3-2 after extra time to Belgium in the Round of 32.
The painful defeat sparked widespread criticism from supporters and football analysts, many of whom questioned the team’s tactical approach, substitutions and inability to protect their lead during the knockout encounter.
In the aftermath of the elimination, pressure mounted on the Senegalese Football Federation to review the national team’s technical direction.
The federation has now responded by relieving Thiaw of his duties along with every member of his coaching staff, bringing his spell in charge to an abrupt end.
Thiaw was appointed Senegal head coach in 2024 after replacing Aliou Cissé, who had guided the Lions of Teranga through one of the most successful periods in the country’s football history.
During his time in charge, Thiaw led Senegal to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and also oversaw the team’s campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite those achievements, the federation believes fresh leadership is required as Senegal prepares for the next Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Sadio Mane Retires
Meanwhile Senegalese talisman and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr forward, Sadio Mane has retired from international football.
“I sacrificed everything for this flag. I fought for my country until the very end,” the Senegalese forward told Le Quotidien.
“I gave the very best of myself and I always fought fiercely for our homeland.
“Your constant support has been the engine of my success.”
At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Senegal had lost 2-3 to Belgium in the Round of 16.
Mane, 34, has made 130 appearances and scored 54 goals for the Senegal national team.
He is the all-time leading goalscorer in the national squad’s history. In 2021, he won the Africa Cup of Nations, with Senegal.
