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Pape Thiaw calls for a strong response from Senegal's team after two World Cup defeats
via SeneNews1 min read
National coach Pape Thiaw addressed the challenging situation for Senegal's team ahead of their decisive match against Iraq in the 2026 World Cup group stage. Following two losses to France 3-1 and Norway 3-2, Thiaw acknowledged the high expectations for his team before the tournament. He stated in a press conference, "It's true that there's a lot of talk, especially after two matches and two defeats when we were cited among the favorites. We must sound the revolt." Thiaw emphasized that both the technical staff and the players need to take responsibility, adding, "On my side, tactically, but also on the players' side, everyone must take their responsibilities." Facing Iraq, the team has no room for error if they hope to qualify for the round of sixteen.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Must ReadThe International Monetary Fund IMF concluded its latest mission to Senegal last Friday without finalizing a new financing program. Julie Kozack, Director of the IMF's Communications Department, stated that discussions are ongoing between the two parties. She noted that technical discussions continue, aiming for a shared understanding of Senegal's macroeconomic outlook, financing needs, and the authorities' reform priorities, which are essential conditions for any IMF program. Kozack also addressed reforms undertaken by Senegalese authorities regarding budgetary vulnerabilities, particularly those related to hidden debt. She acknowledged measures already taken, such as successive public debt audits and institutional reforms to unify debt management. However, the IMF believes additional efforts are needed, including potential new audits, one to be conducted by a private international firm, finalization of payment arrears audits, and strengthened controls over budgetary commitments. These steps are considered crucial by the institution to consolidate progress and facilitate the conclusion of ongoing negotiations between Senegal and the IMF.
Ahead of Senegal's match against Iraq, national coach Pape Thiaw stressed the importance of a win to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive. Thiaw described Iraq as a technically and tactically disciplined team, particularly strong in attack. He stated that the previous loss to Norway should serve as motivation to defeat Iraq and progress to the next round. Thiaw called the upcoming game a "final" for both teams, asserting that Senegal must win to remain in the World Cup. He also urged public support for the national team. All players are available for the match, with the exception of goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
Guy Stéphan, who will lead the French team against Norway due to head coach Didier Deschamps' bereavement, stated on Thursday that the entire squad is "very affected" by the situation. Deschamps returned to France on Tuesday following the death of his mother, with the funeral scheduled for Friday. Stéphan, the assistant coach, mentioned that he, the staff, and the players are thinking of Didier and his family. He aims to make a difficult situation as normal as possible and to honor the trust Deschamps placed in him. Stéphan previously led the team in a Nations League match in 2022 after the death of Didier Deschamps' father. He also noted that communication with Deschamps is ongoing. Midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni affirmed that the team is "on a mission" after the personal tragedy affecting their coach, aiming to make him proud. The French team, already qualified for the World Cup round of 16, will secure first place in Group I with at least a draw against Norway on Friday in Foxborough, Massachusetts.