World Cup 2026: Pape Thiaw adds video analyst Abdoulaye Seck to Senegal setup

Senegal have reinforced their technical team at the 2026 World Cup with the appointment of video analyst El Hadji Abdoulaye Seck to Pape Thiaw’s coaching staff.

The Senegalese Football Federation has added Seck to the backroom team as the Lions prepare for their crucial Group I fixture against Norway following their opening defeat to France.

According to reports from L’Equipe, Seck’s arrival comes shortly after Senegal’s 3-1 loss to France, with the coaching staff seeking additional support as they aim to improve their performances during the tournament.

The analyst is expected to play a key role in studying both Senegal’s own displays and those of upcoming opponents, providing detailed tactical analysis to assist the coaching staff throughout the competition.

Seck is no stranger to international football. The CAF B Licence holder has previously worked within the technical teams of Burkina Faso and Mauritania, gaining valuable experience at national team level.

His appointment also represents a significant step in his coaching ambitions.

Earlier in 2025, Seck spoke openly about his desire to be involved more closely with a senior national team coaching setup. At the time, he had been offered a position as head of the analysis department within Senegal’s National Technical Directorate (DTN), but made clear that he wanted a broader role within a first-team environment.

“I can do the coaching, I want to do it, and I’m eager to do it, but only if I’m also integrated into the first-team staff. If I accept an intermediate position, it will only be temporary. I don’t want to be confined to coaching.”

Those comments now appear particularly relevant following his inclusion in Pape Thiaw’s World Cup staff.

Seck will be present on the bench when Senegal face Norway, led by striker Erling Haaland, in a match that could prove decisive for the Lions’ hopes of progressing from the group stage.

His analytical expertise is expected to strengthen Senegal’s preparations as the team seeks to respond positively after its disappointing start to the tournament.

With the pressure increasing after the defeat to France, the addition of Seck highlights Senegal’s determination to maximise every available resource in pursuit of success at the World Cup