Thiaw added: “Once we conceded 2-1, we retreated even more and they scored their second goal.”
By Kehinde Okeowo
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has attributed their 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32 at the ongoing World Cup to the team’s tactical decision to preserve their lead instead of continuing to attack.
The 45-year-old Senegalese tactician made this known while addressing journalists after the thrilling encounter.
Senegal went two goals up in their last-32 clash with the European nation at the Seattle Stadium before eventually crashing out.
Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr put the Teranga Lions in front, but Belgium fought back to score twice late in the second half through Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans, forcing the game into extra time.
With just seconds remaining before a penalty shoot-out, the Belgian side was awarded a late spot-kick, which Tielemans calmly converted.
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Speaking at his post-match press conference, Thiaw admitted they lost because they were too desperate to protect their lead.
He noted that his players gave their all in an attempt to reach the Round of 16 for the Senegalese people.
“We had the match in hand, winning 2-0, and then we backed off a little towards the end; we wanted to hold onto the score,” Thiaw said.
He added: “Once we conceded 2-1, we retreated even more and they scored their second goal.
“It wasn’t easy; we tried to lift their spirits and bring more energy to the team.
“It’s tough because they gave it their all; we wanted to qualify for our people.”
