World Cup 2026: Senegal Coach Opens Up After Defeat To Norway

World Cup 2026: Senegal Coach Opens Up After Defeat To Norway

Sampson Adedeji

Head coach of Senegal, Pape Thiaw, has reflected on his team's disappointing defeat to Norway in their second Group stage match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Teranga Lions suffered a 3-2 loss to Norway, a result that has left the West African side on the brink of an early exit from the tournament.

Speaking after the match, Thiaw admitted that his side faced an uphill task after falling two goals behind at crucial moments of the game.

"It is very difficult to get back into the game when we were two goals down, considering when we conceded the goals just before the end of the first half and a few minutes into the beginning of the second," Thiaw said.

The Senegal coach explained that his players tried to remain composed despite the setback and avoid losing control of the contest.

"We were trying to keep a cool head and not lose total control of the game. 

Yes, we found a second wind at the end, but we also have to commend the opponent for the game they played," he added.

Despite a spirited late fightback, Senegal were unable to overturn the deficit as Norway secured all three points, leaving the Teranga Lions facing a difficult path to qualification for the knockout stages of the World Cup.