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The Senegal national football team is currently grappling with significant internal issues following their unexpected defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Midfielder Pape Gueye has declared that he will not represent the national team as long as the current coaching staff remains in place.

In the aftermath of the match, Gueye expressed his dissatisfaction with the team's management on his Instagram account. He stated, "I will return to discuss this World Cup exit later. For now, I am announcing my temporary retirement from the national team until the current coaching staff is changed."

During the match against Belgium in Seattle, Senegal was leading 2-0 until the 51st minute, thanks to goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaïla Sarr. However, the situation deteriorated after Gueye was substituted in the 64th minute, disrupting the team's momentum. Belgium made a remarkable comeback, scoring three goals, including a penalty in injury time, resulting in a 3-2 victory.

This year has been tumultuous for Senegalese football. In January, during the African Cup of Nations, they believed they had retained their title against Morocco, only to lose it after a legal dispute. Coach Pape Thiaw faced disciplinary action for walking off the field during a controversial penalty decision, leading to a five-match ban. Senegal is currently awaiting the outcome of an appeal filed with the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland.

Despite setting a record as the first African nation to score 10 goals in this World Cup, the ongoing internal conflicts have overshadowed Senegal's accomplishments.