The Senegalese Football Federation (SFF) has parted ways with Aliou Cissé, the head coach of the national team, following a string of disappointing results in both the AFCON 2025 and 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Cissé, who made history by leading Senegal to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 2022, has recently faced mounting pressure due to lacklustre performances.

The 48-year-old tactician, who once captained the Teranga Lions to their maiden FIFA World Cup in 2002, will no longer be at the helm as the SFF searches for a new head coach.

Cissé’s playing career includes leading the national team to a historic World Cup quarterfinal appearance in South Korea and Japan in 2002.

Senegal famously defeated defending champions France in the group stage and narrowly lost 1-0 to Turkey via the golden goal rule in the quarterfinals.

The SFF confirmed it had initiated finding a new manager for the Teranga Lions, informing Cissé of their decision after careful consideration.

While speculation swirls about the possibility of hiring a foreign coach, a significant portion of Senegal’s football community advocates for a local manager to take over.

The new head coach, whose appointment is expected in the coming weeks, will play a crucial role in shaping the national team’s future as Senegal prepares for the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.

Aliou Cissé, who took charge in 2015, brought notable success to the Lions of Teranga, including the AFCON 2021 championship and leading the team to consecutive World Cup appearances.

However, Senegal’s early exit in the AFCON 2023 Round of 16 heightened concerns about the team’s future under his leadership.

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