Senegalese federation comments on reports of tensions between coach Pape Thiaw and federation

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has issued an official statement expressing its regret over the reports suggesting the existence of disagreements between head coach Pape Thiaw and the federation.

Senegal have already secured qualification to the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after finishing top of Group D, and are set to face Sudan in the knockout stage.

In its statement, the FSF said:

“The Senegalese Football Federation expresses its regret over the persistence of certain rumors and information relayed by some media outlets, which suggest the existence of disagreements or underlying tensions between the federation and the national team coach.”

The federation strongly condemned what it described as baseless allegations, stressing that their sole purpose appears to be disrupting the positive momentum of the national team during the tournament.

The FSF statement highlighted two key points:

1. Perfect cooperation:
“Beyond professional and official relations, the President of the Senegalese Football Federation maintains very friendly and brotherly relations with the national team coach and all members of the technical staff.”

2. United efforts:
“The Senegalese delegation works daily under the supervision of the federation president in complete harmony, mutual respect, and a shared vision: to place the team in the best possible conditions to perform. This is not a time for sterile conflicts or division.”

The federation concluded by calling for unity and support:
“This is a time for collective mobilization and sacred unity of the entire Senegalese people around their national team and coaching staff. All energies must be focused on one objective: supporting our Lions towards final victory and lifting the trophy on January 18, God willing.”

Senegal, champions of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, recorded victories over Benin and Botswana, alongside a draw against DR Congo, to book their place in the Round of 16 of the current edition.

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