Senegal's World Cup campaign is on the brink of collapse after a series of on-field defeats and off-field governance failures. The Lions of Teranga have lost their opening two Group I matches, against France and Norway, leaving them needing a substantial victory over Iraq on Friday to have any chance of advancing to the last 32.
Governance crisis deepens
The turmoil extends beyond the pitch. Former Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF) president Augustin Senghor, widely regarded as the most successful leader in the federation's history, lost his re-election bid in August 2024. Senghor, who also serves as mayor of Gorée island, told the Guardian: "After losing the election I decided to stay quiet and not talk too much about football, to allow the new administration to take charge, with my cooperation and full support." His tenure, marked by professionalism, contrasts sharply with the current administration under Abdoulaye Fall, which has been plagued by mismanagement.
Coach's contract dispute
Head coach Pape Thiaw had been without a contract since February and was owed five months of unpaid wages. He refused to travel to the United States for the World Cup until President Bassirou Diomaye Faye intervened. Thiaw announced his contractual and salary issues were resolved just before the 3-2 loss to Norway on Monday. Sources reported a $100,000-per-month salary demand as the sticking point, but Thiaw insisted: "It was never a money issue but a principles and respect issue." Senghor advised Thiaw to focus on the team, saying: "I told him that he had to focus on the assignment for our nation and not be distracted."
On-field struggles
Senegal's performances have been underwhelming. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly, lacking match fitness after a muscle injury in April, admitted: "Every ball I touched went wrong. I made a lot of mistakes. We know the level here is very high, and you can't afford mistakes – we made too many to be able to win the match." Koulibaly has not played competitively since early April while with Saudi club Al-Hilal.
Selection criticism
Thiaw faces sharp criticism from Senegalese media over player selection and game management. Many question his reluctance to use young talent like Tottenham's Pape Matar Sarr, who could have replaced Koulibaly against Norway. Sadio Mané, Senegal's talisman, has been inconsequential at this World Cup, which will be his last. Thiaw needs Mané to rediscover his form against Iraq.
Must-win scenario
Senegal must beat Iraq by a significant margin in Toronto to keep their hopes alive. Failure could end Thiaw's tenure after only 18 months in charge. The team has lost two consecutive matches at a finals for the first time since their impressive 2002 debut.
