Former Senegal coach Pape Thiaw rooting for African coaches to lead their nations

Ten African teams qualified for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, with nine of them making it to the knockout stages, and five of those teams were coached by local coaches.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Thiaw says he has been impressed by the intensity and growth of football across the continent.

“It is Africa who wins. 10 countries were in the World Cup, nine reached the knockout stage, two nations in the round of sixteen. It shows that there are a lot of improvements in all teams, with some good qualities,” Thiaw said.

READ: TS Galaxy star Leandra Smeda on SAFJA Awards recognition

“Also, all coaches from African countries in the World Cup were Africans. I really appreciate that. We have some good and talented coaches in Africa. 

“I hope every nation will give the opportunity to local coaches in the coming years after we showed our potential during the last World Cup.”

Thiaw led Senegal to the CHAN title in 2023 and guided them to the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which they had initially won on the field before being stripped of the title, and Morocco were then handed the trophy after the Lions of Teranga walked off the pitch when a penalty was awarded to the hosts. 

He also helped Senegal reach the knockout stages of the FIFA men’s World Cup recently, and with a lot of African players plying their trade across the globe, the former striker believes there should also be greaterinvestment in local leagues to help develop young talent.

“Africa must continue to develop. Our coaches also need to keep on improving, and our clubs must invest more in order to grow and create the conditions necessary to retain our young talents. If all of this comes together, why not dream of winning the next World Cup? Anything is possible.”