2026 WCQ: “Pape Thiaw needs patience to shape Senegal” - Kouyaté

Senegal versus Togo:

Photo Credit - Fédération Sénégalaise de Football.

Veteran Senegal midfielder Cheikhou Kouyaté has urged the country folks to be patient with the national team head coach, Pape Thiaw.

The former international is on a new chapter with the Teranga Lions, leading them into second position on the Group B of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The former African champions are on 12 points, one point behind DR Congo in after six matches in pursuit of a an automatic slot for the tournament in Mexico, Canada and USA.

Despite being without a club, Kouyaté remains an influential figure in the squad and has defended the manager against mounting criticism. “There are no small teams anymore. Sudan showed us that we must approach every match with full commitment, regardless of the opponent, the players, or the clubs they represent,” Kouyaté said.

“Playing for a club is not the same as representing your country. At club level, you can afford setbacks and still have chances to recover. But in the national team, every match is a battle, and every point is crucial for qualification,” he explained.

With Pape Thiaw now leading the Senegalese squad, Kouyaté believes the coach deserves time to implement his ideas and shape the team.

“Pape Thiaw is here to continue the work. He knows the team well, but we must understand that football evolves.

“It’s not just about the coach but also the players—both the experienced ones and the newcomers. We need to be patient. Why are we so quick to judge?” he questioned.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers return in September with Senegal looking to win all matches to qualify for the World Cup next year.