Pape Thiaw refuses to be drawn on Belgium penalty after Senegal World Cup exit

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw declined to comment on the decisive penalty awarded to Belgium during his side’s dramatic 3-2 defeat in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup.

The match swung on a late VAR intervention deep into extra time, when Belgium were awarded a spot-kick that was converted to complete a remarkable comeback after Senegal had led 2-0.

Speaking after the match, Thiaw avoided any criticism of the officials when questioned about the incident.

“I can’t talk about it. I don’t want to get into it,” he said.

Senegal had been on the brink of a famous victory after goals earlier in the contest put them in control, but Belgium fought back with late strikes to level the match before sealing qualification in extra time.

The penalty decision, which followed a video review, sparked heated reactions on the pitch, with Senegal players visibly frustrated as their World Cup campaign came to an end.

Despite the controversy surrounding the match, Thiaw focused on his team’s performance and the manner of their exit, as Senegal surrendered a two-goal advantage in the closing stages of normal time.

Belgium advance to the Round of 16, while Senegal are left to reflect on a painful elimination after a match that slipped away in dramatic fashion.