World Cup 2026: “We’ll do everything to avoid elimination” – Senegal coach Pape Thiaw

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has openly acknowledged the disappointment surrounding the team following their back-to-back defeats at the 2026 World Cup, while calling for a strong response in their decisive final group match against Iraq.

The Teranga Lions will take on Iraq on Friday, in a high-stakes encounter at the tournament being held across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Senegal have yet to pick up a point in the competition and now find themselves on the brink of elimination ahead of their final group-stage fixture.

Despite the difficult situation, Thiaw has urged his players to rise to the occasion and fight to keep their World Cup hopes alive, stressing the importance of resilience and character under pressure.

“People are disappointed; we know that. We have to accept it and respond by fighting back on the pitch. We’re working on it and we’re ready. We’ll do everything we can to win and continue our campaign. It’s up to us to react and show a different side to ourselves,” Thiaw said.

The Senegal coach also pointed to the success of other African teams in the tournament as motivation, encouraging his side to believe in their ability to turn their campaign around.

“If other African teams have managed to qualify for the next round, why not Senegal? We have what it takes to achieve that,” he added.

Senegal’s preparations have been focused on restoring confidence and sharpening their attacking efficiency after a frustrating start to the group stage. The team’s inability to secure points in their opening two matches has increased pressure, but the squad remains determined to salvage qualification.

The upcoming clash against Iraq now represents a do-or-die moment for the West African side, who must secure victory and rely on other results to keep their tournament hopes alive.

With national pride and progression on the line, Senegal will be aiming to deliver their strongest performance of the competition as they seek to avoid an early exit from the World Cup.