Pape Thiaw asserts authority before Belgium-Senegal match, emphasizes participatory management

Thiaw stated he maintains close relationships with all players, not just the team's senior members, fostering an environment of dialogue and understanding. He believes this participatory approach strengthens team cohesion and engagement. Despite these exchanges, Thiaw firmly stated that decisions regarding team composition and tactics rest exclusively with him.

He expressed confidence in his players' mental readiness for the crucial match, emphasizing the need to win to advance in the tournament. Thiaw also extended support to Senegalese journalists covering the event, hoping they, like the team, would remain in Seattle for as long as possible.