South African football has entered a new chapter after the South African Football Association (SAFA) officially confirmed the return of Pitso Mosimane as head coach of Bafana Bafana.
Mosimane was unveiled on Tuesday at SAFA House in Johannesburg, bringing an end to weeks of speculation and negotiations over who would succeed Belgian coach Hugo Broos.
Pitso Mosimane Pictures credited by Facebook
The 62-year-old coach returns to the national team more than a decade after his first spell in charge, which ran from 2010 to 2012. His return comes at a crucial moment for Bafana Bafana, following the team’s historic qualification for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A NEW ERA FOR BAFANA
Mosimane inherits a national team that has gained renewed confidence under Broos. Rather than starting from scratch, the experienced coach has indicated that his intention is to build on the foundation already established.
The new Bafana boss has acknowledged the work done by Broos and the players, saying the team has given South Africans a reason to believe again.
Mosimane now faces the challenge of raising the standard even further and transforming that renewed belief into sustained success on the African and international stage.
IMMEDIATE CHALLENGE
There will be little time for Mosimane to settle into his new position. Bafana Bafana are preparing for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, which begins later this month.
The coach will also have the responsibility of preparing the national team for future international competitions, including the road towards the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
MOSIMANE’S EXPERIENCE
Mosimane brings significant international experience to the position. His coaching career has included successful spells with clubs such as Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly, where he established himself as one of Africa’s most decorated coaches.
His return to Bafana Bafana is therefore being viewed as an opportunity to combine his experience with the talented generation of South African players that has emerged in recent years.
SAFA president Danny Jordaan welcomed the appointment, saying he looks forward to renewing his working relationship with Mosimane and continuing efforts to advance South African football.
THE BIG QUESTION
The major question now is whether Mosimane can take Bafana Bafana to the next level.
After reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time, expectations among South African supporters are higher than ever. Mosimane will be expected not only to maintain the team’s progress but also to compete strongly for major African honours and secure another World Cup qualification.
For Mosimane, however, this is more than another coaching job. It is a return to the national team at a time when South African football is once again beginning to dream.
The Pitso Mosimane era has officially begun.