Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Pape Gueye Pauses Senegal Career After 3-2 World Cup Defeat

The midfielder’s break has deepened a leadership crisis for the Senegalese Football Federation as supporters press for coach Pape Thiaw’s removal.

Overview

  • Senegal were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after losing 3-2 to Belgium in extra time, with a penalty in the 125th minute deciding the match.
  • Hours after Thursday’s loss, midfielder Pape Gueye posted that he will take a break from the national team while Pape Thiaw remains coach.
  • Gueye was substituted around the 66th minute and said after the game that he was physically fit when he was taken off.
  • Coach Pape Thiaw said he made the changes because several players were fatigued and had asked to be substituted.
  • Public pressure has grown, including a petition reported to have more than 30,000 signatures calling for Thiaw’s removal, leaving the FSF under immediate scrutiny and raising questions about team leadership and selection going forward.