Sports Desk Reporter
Pitso Mosimane is officially back in charge of Bafana Bafana after being unveiled as the national team’s new head coach today.
The appointment marks his second permanent spell with the national team. Mosimane previously coached Bafana from 2010 to 2012 and also served as caretaker coach in 2007.
He brings a stronger coaching record to the role, having guided Mamelodi Sundowns to the CAF Champions League title in 2016 before winning the competition twice with Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
Mosimane succeeds Hugo Broos, who left the position following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Under Broos, Bafana reached the knockout stage of the tournament for the first time.
Speaking at his unveiling, Mosimane described the occasion as an important moment in his career.
“Today is a special day for me in my football career. I have learnt that there are moments in the game that are bigger than me, the game, and this is one of those moments. I have been allowed to lead the national team 14 years later, and I appreciate it,” Mosimane said.
He acknowledged the responsibility that comes with leading the national team.
“This is not just a coaching job; it is bigger than Pitso Mosimane. I know the responsibility that comes with this job, and I humbly accept the challenge,” Mosimane said.
Mosimane also said he wants to build on the progress made under Broos.
“My responsibility is to build on the foundation laid by coach Hugo Broos, and my responsibility is to take it further,” Mosimane said.
SAFA’s National Executive Committee approved Mosimane’s appointment in August, with the federation later finalising the outstanding matters before making it official.
His first major task will be preparing Bafana for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
South Africa is due to host Guinea later this month before facing Eritrea days later. The team will also face Kenya later in the campaign.
Mosimane will have little time to prepare the squad before competitive action begins.
The coach inherits a side with high expectations following its historic World Cup campaign. His experience of winning major continental trophies will now be put to the test with the national team.
The immediate challenge is clear: maintain Bafana’s momentum and take the team further.