Senegal Dismisses Claims of World Cup Boycott by Coach Over Contract Dispute

Head Coach Situation and World Cup Preparations

According to Главком: The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has officially denied rumors that head coach Pape Thiaw might boycott the World Cup due to contract issues. According to an official statement from the federation, the 45-year-old coach has been working without a formal contract since February of this year. However, the FSF strongly refutes any suggestion that Thiaw has refused to participate in the tournament.

'The Football Federation categorically denies baseless rumors that the national team's head coach refused to travel due to issues related to the renegotiation of his contract,' the statement reads.

The federation also clarified the reasons behind the delayed departure of the Senegalese team to the United States. The postponement was caused by administrative and logistical hurdles, including delays in obtaining a license for a special flight and completing visa processing for some staff members.

'The team's flight to the United States was postponed solely due to administrative and logistical reasons: a delay in securing the license for a special flight and the completion of visa arrangements for some staff members,' the FSF reported.

Despite these issues, the federation emphasized that 'minor logistical delays have not affected the unity and morale of the players, coaching staff, or the federation.'

Group I of the 2026 World Cup

In the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, Senegal has been drawn into Group I, where they will face the following teams:

• France
• Norway
• Iraq

In other news, during the playoff semifinal for the 2026 World Cup, Ukraine lost to Sweden with a score of 1:3. Goals were scored by Ponomarenko (90+1) for Ukraine and Gyökeres (6, 51, 72) for Sweden.

Despite administrative challenges, the Senegalese Football Federation continues its preparations for the World Cup, while also addressing rumors surrounding its head coach. This situation highlights the need for stable team management ahead of major competitions. Senegal's national team aims to stay focused on its Group I matches, which include formidable opponents, and resolving administrative issues remains critical to ensuring smooth preparations on the eve of the World Cup.

As Senegal prepares for the World Cup, the dynamics of national teams are evolving, with significant developments in the USA squad as well. Notably, the absence of MLS defenders in the roster highlights a strategic shift that could influence the tournament's outcome. This context adds another layer to the competitive landscape as teams finalize their preparations.