Senegal sack Pape Thiaw, Patrick Vieira ‘could replace’ him | OneFootball

Senegal sacked head coach Pape Thiaw on Sunday 12 July, a little over a week after their World Cup exit to Belgium.

They went out in the round of 32 after surrendering a two-goal lead in the 85th minute, Belgium struck twice late to force extra time then converted a stoppage-time penalty for 3-2. Sport News Africa reports separate logistical complaints at the camp, including a low-quality hotel in New Jersey and players sourcing food outside after the federation did not send a chef.

A former Alavés forward, Thiaw had led Senegal since late 2024. He was central to a chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final in January, instructing his players to leave the pitch against Morocco amid refereeing disputes before they returned and won in extra time. Weeks later the trophy was awarded to Morocco by walkover, though that decision remains unresolved.

Patrick Vieira, born in Dakar and a 1998 World Cup winner with France, could be chosen as Thiaw’s successor. The former Arsenal midfielder has coached New York City, OGC Nice, Crystal Palace, Strasbourg and Genoa.

Thiaw had earned plaudits for elevating Senegal during that campaign before events around the final escalated.

Source: Superdeporte