After the victory of the Senegal Lions against Burundi (2-0) Tuesday evening at the Abdoulaye Wade stadium, Pape Thiaw’s interim mandate at the head of the national team could well be extended. While this meeting counted for the CAN 2025 qualifiers planned in Morocco, the president of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), Augustin Senghor, announced that the national team would have a new full-time coach before the end of the year. However, Augustin Senghor does not rule out the possibility of confirming Pape Thiaw, whose interim position was deemed satisfactory.
Speaking in the mixed zone after the match, the president of the FSF declared: “We will meet as an executive committee to define clear criteria for the choice of the new coach, so as not to have too long a list of candidates. The list will be restricted, it will not exceed five coaches. Among them, Pape Thiaw has his cards to play. » This declaration demonstrates recognition of the work accomplished by Pape Thiaw, who was able to maintain the dynamic of the team and guarantee convincing results during his interim period.
Augustin Senghor insisted on the importance of choosing a coach in line with the ambitions of Senegalese football: “We are going to target certain coaches who we will consult on their interest in our national team and on the possible project that they can propose. It is essential that the new coach has in-depth knowledge of the high level and Senegalese football. » These criteria reflect a desire for continuity in performance while instilling a long-term vision for the Lions.
The identity of the next coach is expected to be revealed by the end of 2024. This decision will mark a crucial step for the Lions in their preparation for CAN 2025 and qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
In the meantime, Pape Thiaw, supported by his results and the implicit support of the federation, remains in the race. His knowledge of Senegalese football and his ability to unite the players could well allow him to definitively land this prestigious position.
Senegal
