Senegal eliminated from World Cup after late collapse

Senegal’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in the group stage after a 2-1 defeat to Japan, prompting a wave of criticism from former national‑team players and supporters. In post‑match interviews, ex‑internationals such as former captain Kalidou Koulibaly and veteran striker Henri Camara said the loss reflected deeper issues beyond the scoreline, pointing to tactical choices made by head coach Aliou Cissé and the team’s overall preparation.

The critics highlighted three primary factors: the timing and nature of substitutions, which they argued disrupted the squad’s rhythm; a perceived lack of focus during crucial phases of the match, especially after conceding the opening goal; and travel restrictions that limited the team’s ability to train together in the days leading up to the tournament. Fans echoed these concerns on social media, noting that limited access to the training camp and last‑minute itinerary changes may have hindered cohesion. While the Senegalese Football Federation has not yet responded formally, the commentary underscores a growing demand for strategic revisions ahead of future international competitions.