Senegal have dismissed their manager Pape Thiaw following the team’s exit from the World Cup 2026 at the round-of-32 stage.

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced the decision on Sunday, stating that it was taken in the “best interests” of the national team’s future.

Senegal entered the tournament with strong expectations but suffered consecutive defeats in their first two group matches against France and Norway.

The Lions of Teranga managed to progress to the round of 32 as one of the best third-placed sides, thanks to a commanding 5-0 win over Iraq in their final group game.

However, their campaign came to an abrupt end after a dramatic 3-2 loss to Belgium. Despite being 2-0 ahead until the 86th minute, Senegal conceded three late goals that sealed their elimination.

Thiaw, who took charge in 2024, had earlier guided Senegal to victory at the Africa Cup of Nations in January, defeating Morocco in the final to claim the continental title.

That triumph was later overshadowed by controversy. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) stripped Senegal of the championship two months later, citing irregularities during the final in which Thiaw played a central role.

During the match, Thiaw instructed his players to leave the pitch after Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty. The team eventually returned, and Brahim Diaz’s penalty was saved. Senegal went on to win the match in extra time.

In March, CAF overturned the result, declaring Morocco the winners. Senegal have since lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, seeking to reclaim their title.