Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has underlined the importance of meticulous preparation ahead of his team’s decisive 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Sudan and Togo.
With the matches set to take place in Libya and on home soil, Thiaw is treating both encounters as finals, emphasizing the need for a disciplined approach.
The coach acknowledged the magnitude of these fixtures and stressed the necessity of creating optimal conditions for the squad.
He urged the Senegalese government and the country’s football federation (FSF) to ensure that all logistical aspects are handled efficiently, particularly given the demanding schedule.
Challenges of a Tight Schedule
Senegal faces a significant challenge with just a two-day gap between the matches, making player recovery a top priority.
Thiaw highlighted the importance of well-coordinated logistics, including swift travel arrangements, especially as the games will take place during Ramadan.
“These matches are like finals for us. We need to be well-prepared and ensure that the players have the best conditions to perform at their best,” Thiaw stated.
“With such a tight schedule, recovery will be crucial, and we count on the support of the federation and government to facilitate smooth travel and preparation.”
Adaptability Amid Difficult Conditions
The coach acknowledged that external factors, including the playing conditions in Libya, could pose difficulties. However, he expressed confidence in his team’s ability to adapt, emphasizing that mental resilience and strategic preparation would be key.
Despite the challenges, Thiaw remains optimistic about Senegal’s prospects, reaffirming the squad’s determination to secure maximum points.
Senegal’s World Cup Ambitions
As the Teranga Lions push for a place in the 2026 World Cup, Thiaw made it clear that every game must be approached with a winning mentality.
“Each match must be played as if it were a final,” he insisted. “Senegal must continue proving that we are a dominant force in African football.”
With the pressure mounting, Thiaw’s leadership and the team’s preparation will be instrumental in determining Senegal’s path to the global stage.
