The Teranga Lions moved swiftly after a campaign overshadowed by tactical criticism, fan backlash, and dressing-room unrest.

Dakar, Senegal (Running Africa) — The Senegalese Football Federation has dismissed head coach Pape Thiaw following the Teranga Lions’ disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, ending his tenure after the team’s dramatic Round of 32 elimination.

The decision comes days after Senegal surrendered a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to Belgium after extra time, with the decisive goal coming from a controversial VAR-awarded penalty in the 125th minute. The heartbreaking defeat brought an abrupt end to Senegal’s hopes of progressing further in the tournament and intensified scrutiny of Thiaw’s leadership.

Pressure on the coach had already been mounting after Senegal suffered group-stage defeats to France and Norway, leaving the team with a difficult path into the knockout rounds.

Fan backlash grows after Belgium defeat

Calls for Thiaw’s dismissal escalated immediately after the loss to Belgium, with more than 30,000 supporters signing an online petition urging the federation to remove him from his post.

Supporters criticized the coach’s tactical decisions, accusing him of poor game management, delayed substitutions, and failing to use all five available substitutions as Belgium mounted its comeback.

Pape Gueye’s decision adds pressure

The pressure intensified further when midfielder Pape Gueye announced he would step away from international football until a new head coach was appointed.

Gueye, who was substituted while Senegal held a 2-0 advantage, later stated that he was not fatigued and publicly questioned the decision to replace him during one of the most crucial moments of the match.

AFCON controversy and search for a new coach

Thiaw’s tenure had also been overshadowed by controversy following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, where Senegal forfeited the title after players walked off the pitch in protest over a disputed penalty decision.

With preparations now turning toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, the federation is expected to move quickly to appoint a successor.

Former France captain Patrick Vieira, who was born in Dakar, has emerged as the leading candidate to take over the national team.

The appointment of Senegal’s next head coach is expected to play a crucial role in restoring confidence within one of Africa’s strongest football nations as the Teranga Lions look to rebound from a disappointing World Cup campaign and return to competing for continental honors.