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Rabat – Thousands of Senegal fans have called for head coach Pape Thiaw to be sacked following the team’s dramatic exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to a Senenews report, more than 35,000 people signed an online petition within 12 hours of Senegal’s elimination. The petition urges the Senegalese Football Federation to dismiss Thiaw, blaming him for the team’s disappointing defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32.
Senegal looked set to reach the next stage after taking a 2-0 lead. However, Belgium scored twice in the final five minutes of normal time to force extra time before netting a late winner, ending the Lions of Teranga’s World Cup campaign.
Tactical decision’s criticsÂ
The dramatic collapse sparked widespread anger among supporters, who questioned Thiaw’s tactical decisions throughout the tournament.
Critics also pointed to the squad selection, arguing that the coach relied too heavily on experienced players while overlooking younger talents who deserved a chance at the World Cup.
The petition says Senegal’s early exit was the result of several questionable decisions made during the tournament, rather than just the loss to Belgium.
Fans were also unhappy with Thiaw’s in-game management against Belgium. They criticized his late substitutions and questioned why he did not use all five substitutions, especially when fatigue became a major factor in the closing stages.
The supporters behind the petition are now calling for a new sporting direction. They want the federation to appoint a coaching staff that better reflects the modern game and gives more opportunities to Senegal’s promising young generation.
