Pape Thiaw has made bold choices in his squad for the 2026 World Cup. The Senegalese coach embraces a strategy based on constant competition, relying on a larger squad he believes is made up of players of equal starting level. In his speeches, he emphasizes the need to maintain a solid foundation, even in the face of significant absences like Kalidou Koulibaly, who was replaced without disrupting the structure.
In the first two matches, against France (1-3) and then Norway (2-3), the hierarchy remained largely stable. Despite some adjustments during the games, the starting lineup changed little, reflecting the trust placed in a tight-knit group. This continuity was particularly evident in the high playing time of several key players, who were fielded in both matches with almost no notable rotation.
Among the most utilized players are Sadio Mané, Moussa Niakhaté, and Krépin Diatta, all of whom featured in both matches. Just behind them, Idrissa Gana Guèye (178 minutes), Nicolas Jackson (173 minutes), and captain Kalidou Koulibaly (162 minutes) play central roles in the setup. Goalkeeper Édouard Mendy had clocked 153 minutes before his injury against Norway.
On the other hand, several players have yet to see any action since the tournament began. Goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf, defenders Antoine Mendy, Abdoulaye Seck, and Mamadou Sarr, as well as midfielder Bara Sapo Ndiaye, remain without a single minute. Two other attacking players are also among those still unused, highlighting a very limited rotation so far.
As the final group match against Iraq approaches, the coach’s decisions will be closely watched. The challenge will be to maintain the momentum of the starting eleven while integrating more players from the expanded squad. This management could evolve based on the need for results and the situation in the competition.
🎙️ Pape Thiaw :
« WE ARE NOT DEAD! » 🇸🇳🇮🇶👊🏿 pic.twitter.com/iwJsc4LpW6
— 🏆 Actu Foot Afrique (@ActuFootAfrique) June 24, 2026
