Senegal Leaning Toward Interim Coach for AFCON Qualifiers Against Mozambique, Ethiopia

Senegal may open their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign without a permanent head coach, with technical director Souleymane Diallo tipped to take interim charge, according to Senegalese outlet WiwSport, as reported by Pan Africa Football.

The Senegalese Football Federation parted ways with Pape Thiaw after Senegal's Round of 32 exit to Belgium at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and has been searching for a replacement since. Patrick Vieira had been linked with the job, but WiwSport reports the federation is now expected to lead the qualifiers with an interim appointment instead.

Diallo, 43, has served as the FSF's technical director since March 2026 and previously guided Senegal's home-based national team to third place at the 2024 African Nations Championship. The federation views his appointment as a short-term solution while the search for a permanent coach continues.

Senegal open their Group J qualifying campaign at home to Mozambique on September 23, before facing Ethiopia four days later.