Senegal’s men’s national team saw its World Cup campaign end in the round of 16 after a 2‑0 lead slipped away against Belgium in the 83rd minute, a collapse that left fans stunned.
A disputed continental title
Earlier in the year, under Thiaw’s guidance, Senegal claimed a continental championship in Morocco, a triumph that was later invalidated by the Confederation of African Football, which ruled that the victory had been achieved under irregular circumstances.
Thiaw had been appointed in 2024 with the explicit mandate to build on that success, but the controversy surrounding the title cast a long shadow over his tenure and raised questions about the team’s tactical direction.
The Senegalese Football Federation announced that it had terminated Thiaw’s contract and dissolved his technical staff, citing a need for a fresh approach as the federation seeks to restore confidence after the World Cup disappointment.
In response, Senegal has initiated proceedings with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, hoping to overturn the federation’s decision and secure a more favorable outcome for the coaching staff.
The team’s earlier group‑stage matches also proved precarious, with narrow defeats to France and Norway forcing the squad to fight for every point and highlighting the fine margins that define international football at the highest level.