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Casablanca – Midfielder Pape Gueye summed up the mood when he declared that Senegal were not in the tournament to simply “reach the semifinals,” but to compete for the World Cup itself.
Two matches later, however, the Lions of Teranga found themselves under pressure after consecutive defeats to France and Norway, leaving their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
Following the 3-2 loss to Norway, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw attempted to strike a defiant tone despite the difficult situation.
“We are not out of the tournament yet,” Thiaw said after the match. “The situation is difficult considering our current position, but we still have a chance. We must win the final game and improve our goal difference because the tournament could completely change if we qualify.”
Still, Senegal’s struggles appear to extend beyond results on the pitch.
Several reports from African media outlets have pointed to growing tensions and organizational problems within the Senegal camp during the World Cup. Reports claim Thiaw has been coaching the national team for months without a formal contract or salary agreement in place.
At the same time, concerns have reportedly emerged over the team’s living conditions in the United States. Senegalese outlet Sport News Africa reported that the delegation traveled to the tournament without an official chef, while some players allegedly complained about hotel meals and ordered food from outside instead.
The same report also described frustrations surrounding management decisions and cost-cutting measures affecting staff around the national team.
The situation has inevitably revived memories of Senegal’s turbulent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in Morocco earlier this year.
During AFCON, Senegal repeatedly voiced complaints regarding organization, security, and logistics before the tournament ended in controversy after the final against Morocco. CAF later awarded Morocco the title by forfeit after Senegal walked off the pitch during the match.
Months later, Senegal entered the World Cup speaking openly about lifting the trophy. But after two defeats and increasing scrutiny around the camp, the conversation has shifted dramatically.
With one group stage match remaining, Senegal still mathematically have a chance of reaching the round of 32. Yet for a team that spoke confidently about winning the tournament, simply staying alive has now become the immediate objective.
