Senegal’s preparations for their crucial World Cup match against Norway have been disrupted by reports of internal frustrations over financial and logistical issues within the camp.
After losing 3-1 to France in their opening game, the Lions of Teranga must avoid defeat against Norway to keep their hopes of reaching the Round of 16 alive. Despite appearing focused in training, sources say tensions and unresolved concerns continue to affect the atmosphere within the squad.
At the centre of the unrest is head coach Pape Thiaw, who has continued to lead the national team without an official contract since his previous deal with the Senegalese Football Federation expired in February 2026. Despite reportedly going around five months without receiving a salary, Thiaw has remained in charge through Senegal’s run to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final and into the World Cup itself.
The federation has publicly denied suggestions that Thiaw came close to refusing to travel with the squad to the United States, though multiple reports indicate the matter required direct intervention from senior officials, including assurances from the President of Senegal, before the coach agreed to join the delegation. As things stand, the federation has yet to finalise a new agreement
Compounding the unease is the federation’s failure to settle bonus payments owed to players for both their run to the AFCON 2025 final and their qualification for the World Cup. The delay has drawn particular scrutiny given that the federation is understood to have already received the relevant prize money and qualification-linked funds months ago
Away from the financial disputes, conditions at the team’s American base camp have also become a point of contention. Several players are said to be unhappy with the standard of accommodation provided
Adding to the frustration was the decision not to include the national team’s regular head chef in the travelling delegation, despite the same chef having accompanied the squad throughout their AFCON 2025 campaign.
The timing could hardly be more delicate. Senegal go into the Norway fixture needing a result to keep their qualification hopes on track after the opening defeat to France, and questions are mounting over whether the off-field turbulence will affect a squad already under pressure on the pitch. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly and his teammates will be expected to channel any frustration into performance, but the unresolved issues surrounding pay, welfare and the coach’s standing leave a cloud hanging over Senegal camp.