New York, July 2: Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has announced he will not play for the national team until the current management changes. The 27-year-old made this decision following Senegal’s 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Senegal had a strong start but ultimately faced elimination from the tournament.
Senegal took a 2-0 lead with goals from Habib Diallo (24′) and Ismaila Sarr (51′). However, Romelu Lukaku scored for Belgium in the 86th minute, leveling the score at 2-2 just three minutes later through Youri Tielemans. Belgium secured their victory with a penalty in the dying moments of extra time.
Gueye, who scored twice in Senegal’s earlier win against Iraq, expressed his frustration on social media after the loss to Belgium. He stated he would not represent his country again as long as coach Pape Thioud remains in charge.
On Instagram, Gueye wrote, “I will talk about our loss later, but today I announce that I will take a break from the national team until this technical staff is in charge.”
Playing for Villarreal CF in La Liga, Gueye is a key player for Senegal. His substitution in the 66th minute against Belgium surprised many, as he watched his team squander their lead and exit the World Cup with a 2-3 defeat.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Gueye said, “I felt perfectly fine; I was in good physical condition. The coach makes the decisions.”
Thioud has been the head coach of Senegal since December 2024, during which time the team faced significant controversy. They lost the title at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a walkout in protest of a controversial penalty decision in the final. Following the disappointing exit from the World Cup, questions now surround Thioud’s future with the team.
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