Unrest in Senegal Squad Before Crucial Norway Match

Tensions are reportedly simmering within the Senegalese national football team as they prepare for a critical World Cup match against Norway. Several media outlets have highlighted internal issues that have created a stir in Senegal over the past few days.

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It is true that there has been a bit of noise. It comes from the players' side. I, the staff, and the federation are focusing on the match tomorrow, and that is the most important thing.

Among the reported problems are that head coach Pape Thiaw was allegedly working without a valid contract with the Senegalese Football Federation. Additionally, players are said to not have received bonuses they are entitled to, and the quality of food at their hotel has been so poor that players have resorted to ordering meals from outside.

During a press conference, coach Pape Thiaw acknowledged that there had been "some noise" originating from the players. However, he stressed that his primary focus, along with his staff and the federation, is on the upcoming match. He also confirmed that his contract situation has now been resolved, though he admitted it took longer than expected.

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It is fixed now - it just took too long. It was not a problem with the money, it was just something principled we had to solve.

Jon "Såpa" Thorstensen, who runs a football academy in Dakar and has ties to Norwegian clubs, commented on the situation. He called the coach's contract issue "completely out of line" and the non-payment of bonuses "very unnecessary." Thorstensen believes these issues are symbolically poor for the Senegalese football federation and sports ministry, though he doubts they will significantly impact the players' performance against Norway.

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That the national team coach does not have a valid contract is completely out of line. And that these players have not received their bonuses is also very unnecessary. It goes without saying that these guys are not short of money. But it is still symbolically bad for the football federation and the sports ministry in Senegal.

Despite the internal distractions, Thiaw stated that Senegal is fully aware of the challenge posed by Norway, particularly their attack led by Erling Haaland. He emphasized that their strategy is not just about neutralizing Haaland but about stopping the entire Norwegian team, which they describe as physically strong. Senegal aims to secure three points in the match, having already lost their opening game to France.

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You can say that the case is a bit spicy, but I doubt that this will affect the players. But people on the street in Senegal, and former national team players, are concerned about this now. There are discussion groups online, and people think this is not good.