After their defeats against France (1-3) and Norway (2-3), Senegal finds itself in trouble. Several key players in Pape Thiaw’s squad are now facing heavy criticism. In a highly competitive World Cup context, the Senegalese team has quickly shifted from being a solid outfit to one struggling, mainly due to a very competitive group and repeated defensive and collective errors.
With these two losses, the Lions of Teranga must respond in their final match against Iraq. A victory is essential to keep hopes alive for qualification among the best third-placed teams. The new 48-team format still offers a chance for teams that are not performing well. The pressure is on for the Senegalese, who have no room for error.
Just months after their triumph in the Africa Cup of Nations against Morocco (1-0), the Senegalese are experiencing a significant drop in performance. This situation reignites debates about squad management and the choices made since the tournament began. Questions arise about the group’s ability to maintain the same level of intensity and cohesion as during the AFCON.
In this context, Sene News is particularly critical of Pape Thiaw. The media reports: “His main flaw may have become his greatest weakness: an excessive loyalty to his convictions.” They add: “He cannot field the same players after what we saw against France. Everyone knew the team had issues, especially in player selection and tactical organization,” according to Gaoussou Dramé, former coach of Cheps Excellence de Thiès.
Criticism is also aimed at certain team leaders, accused of insufficient performances. According to Sene News, three players are particularly in the spotlight: captain Kalidou Koulibaly, who struggled on several occasions against France and Norway, Idrissa Gana Gueye, whose ball loss led to a Norwegian goal, and Sadio Mané, whose offensive impact is deemed inadequate. “It feels like the key players are playing as they please. Some can no longer handle 90 minutes at high intensity but continue to be kept on the field. The coach must have the strength to make tough decisions,” emphasizes Gaoussou Dramé.
National team of Senegal: These players who have completely let Pape Thiaw down (in comments) pic.twitter.com/F6SViwUg6E
— SeneNews (@Senenews) June 24, 2026
Finally, a change is already confirmed in goal with the injury of Édouard Mendy, who will miss the next match. This absence opens the door for adjustments in the starting eleven, as several positions remain under scrutiny ahead of a decisive match for qualification.
