Federation initiates contract termination

Following an emergency meeting of its Executive Committee, the federation confirmed its decision to initiate procedures to terminate the duties of Thiao as the national team's technical director, along with the members of his assistant coaching staff. The FSF stated that the decision was reached after a thorough evaluation of the team’s sporting performance and future prospects, adding that the overhaul was enacted in the best interests of Senegalese football.

World Cup campaign deemed a failure

Senegalese Football Federation Secretary General Abdoulaye Seydou Sow characterized the national team's World Cup run as a failure, emphasizing that the federation must learn from the setback to prepare for future challenges.

Speaking on the state television network RTS, Sow admitted that parting ways with the coaching staff was painful. He noted that federation president Abdoulaye Fall has been tasked with consulting relevant stakeholders and collaborating with the government to appoint a suitable replacement. Several domestic and international candidates are reportedly already under consideration for the vacant position.

Summary of Senegal’s World Cup journey

Senegal endured a turbulent tournament run, opening their group stage with a 3-1 defeat to France and a tight 3-2 loss against Norway. They managed to rebound with a dominant 5-0 victory over Iraq, which allowed them to advance to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams.

In their Round of 32 matchup against Belgium, Senegal appeared to have secured their spot in the next round, holding a comfortable 2-0 lead until the 86th minute. However, a late collapse saw Belgium score three unanswered goals, including a dramatic, decisive strike in the final moments of extra time, abruptly ending Senegal’s World Cup campaign.