World Cup 2026: Senegal coach Pape Thiaw hurt by painful Norway defeat

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw says his side are devastated after suffering a narrow 3-2 defeat to Norway in their second Group I game at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Teranga Lions had entered the match under pressure following their opening defeat to France and desperately needed a positive result to revive their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

However, despite a spirited performance and moments of attacking brilliance, Senegal fell short once again, leaving their qualification hopes hanging in the balance ahead of the final round of group matches.

Speaking after the game, Thiaw admitted the defeat was difficult to accept given the preparation and effort his players invested before the encounter.

“It hurts. We prepared well to take the three points,” the Senegal boss said.

“We were just missing a tiny bit. Football is all about details. We must congratulate Norway.”

Back-to-back defeats against France and Norway have left Senegal in a difficult position in Group I, with the team now needing victory in their final game against Iraq while also relying on favourable results elsewhere.

Despite the disappointing situation, Thiaw insists the Teranga Lions will continue fighting until the very end.

“We have one match left. We will play it to the absolute maximum and hope for results elsewhere to see if we qualify,” he added.

Senegal’s final group match against Iraq has now become a must-win encounter as the African champions attempt to avoid an early World Cup exit.