Senegal Coach Thiaw Calls For Better Finishing After 3-1 Loss To France

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw attributed his team's 3-1 defeat to France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I match to lack of efficiency in front of goal. Despite dominating the first half at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Senegal failed to convert chances, while France capitalised on defensive errors in the second half.

"The score would have been different if we were more efficient in finishing," Thiaw said. He acknowledged defensive lapses that allowed France's forward line of Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise, Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola to score. Thiaw emphasised the need to be more aggressive against ball carriers and maintain compact defensive lines.

Senegal face Norway next at the same venue, where they will encounter Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. "We have two more matches and still have our chances," Thiaw said, calling for the team to regroup and tighten their defensive structure.