Senegal's World Cup 2026 performance raises questions about coach Pape Thiaw's strategy
via SeneNews3 min read
Senegal's initial matches in the 2026 World Cup have drawn criticism from supporters and observers following consecutive defeats to France and Norway. Many analysts point to national coach Pape Thiaw's coaching decisions as a key factor. Despite being initially praised for his ability to unite the team, some now suggest his loyalty to his convictions has become a weakness. After the loss to France, many expected tactical adjustments, particularly given defensive vulnerabilities and physical struggles among key players. However, Thiaw largely maintained the same lineup and strategy against Norway, a decision that surprised even Senegalese technical experts. Gaoussou Dram茅, former coach of Cheps Excellence de Thi猫s, stated that the team's problems, including player selection and tactical organization, were evident. Critics argue that this continuity became rigidity, with Senegal displaying consistent weaknesses across both matches, such as an overwhelmed defense and a struggling midfield. Pape Thiaw's management of difficult periods in games has also been questioned, with tactical responses often appearing late or insufficient. The decision to retain Kalidou Koulibaly in the starting lineup, despite his struggles in the first match, has been particularly controversial. Alphousseyni Badji, former coach of US Ouakam, identified Koulibaly as a primary issue in the first game, suggesting alternatives like Path茅 Ciss could have offered more. Beyond tactics, the management of senior
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Senegalese defender Malang Sarr is again a subject of transfer speculation after his contract with RC Lens expired. Olympique Marseille has been mentioned as a potential suitor, as the club faces a delicate financial situation and anticipates significant squad changes. Marseille is looking to balance its finances and redefine sporting priorities, with several defensive players like Nayef Aguerd, Leonardo Balerdi, and Facundo Medina potentially leaving. Benjamin Pavard's return to Inter Milan has already impacted Marseille's defense. Sarr, experienced in Ligue 1 and available as a free agent, fits the profile of a solid, free, and affordable recruit for Marseille. Reports suggested contact had been made regarding a potential collaboration. However, insider Mohamed Toubache-Ter stated on social media that the initiative came from Sarr's agent, not the club, and that Marseille is not interested at this stage, denying any advanced discussions or meetings between the club and the player.
Must ReadThe National Anti-Corruption Office OFNAC in Dakar, through its president Moustapha Ka, announced on Tuesday that individuals required to submit asset declarations who fail to do so by July 31 will face legal sanctions. This warning emphasizes the importance of transparency obligations. Ka stated that a firm deadline has been set to allow individuals to comply with legal requirements. He stressed that this deadline is non-negotiable and OFNAC will strictly apply legal provisions to non-compliant individuals, regardless of their status or position. OFNAC will sanction anyone subject to asset declaration who has not completed it by July 31. The institution is also identifying all concerned individuals to ensure effective law enforcement and urges them to submit "sincere and exhaustive" declarations. OFNAC plans to publish the list of non-compliant individuals through its official channels and other dissemination platforms, a measure aimed at strengthening transparency and encouraging adherence to legal obligations.
Ahead of their final World Cup group match, the technical staff of Senegal's Lions, led by coach Pape Thiaw, has made noticeable adjustments to the team's daily management. During Monday's training session, Thiaw significantly altered the established routine, which previously involved differentiated training based on player status. Until now, starting players, heavily utilized in matches, typically had a lighter program the day after games, focusing on recovery or specific indoor work to optimize physical freshness. However, the recent session saw nearly the entire squad participate in a collective training, a notable shift from earlier routines. This change suggests an intent to intensify collective automatisms at a crucial stage of the tournament, where tactical details are increasingly important. The technical staff appears to be rebalancing preparation between recovery and cohesion work, aiming to maintain a high level of engagement across the entire squad, without significant distinction between starters and substitutes, as they approach the decisive match against Iraq.