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Pitso Mosimane Returns as Bafana Bafana Head Coach
On Tuesday, September 1 2026, the South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed that Pitso Mosimane would once again take the reins of the national men’s side, Bafana Bafana. The appointment follows Belgian coach Hugo Broos’s resignation after the 2026 FIFA World Cup and comes 14 years after Mosimane was dismissed from the post in 2012.
Mosimane’s first stint ended on a sour note. In the final 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, a 0‑0 draw against Sierra Leone in October 2011 was deemed an acceptable result by SAFA, yet a win was required to secure the team’s place. The match’s outcome was later criticized when videos of players celebrating the draw went viral, leaving SAFA leadership feeling embarrassed.
Since that setback, Mosimane has rebuilt his reputation on the club stage. He has lifted the CAF Champions League trophy three times—once with Mamelodi Sundowns and twice with Al‑Ahly—and guided several clubs to domestic titles. His success has made him one of the most sought‑after coaches in African football.
During the press conference announcing his return, Mosimane said, "I have been given the privilege of leading our national team again. I take this responsibility knowing that I still have something to give in football, especially in my country." He added, "I know this is simply not a coaching job; it is bigger than Pitso Mosimane. I understand the weight of this role, the expectations that come with it, and what this team means to South Africa. With pride and determination, I accept the challenge."
Mosimane also clarified why he chose not to keep Helman Mkhalele, the assistant coach who had served under Broos for five years. "Everyone and every coach has his own technical team. Right? And I always want to refer to practical questions," he explained. He compared the decision to the approach of Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti, noting that Ancelotti brings his son to work with him and that the focus should be on the work done rather than personal relationships.
His first priority is to prepare Bafana for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, which begins next month. SAFA’s National Executive Committee approved Mosimane’s appointment on August 8, and the final formalities are expected to be completed shortly.
SAFA, founded in 1991 and admitted to FIFA in 1992, governs all senior national teams and the domestic league system. Bafana Bafana, nicknamed "Young Men," have represented South Africa at four FIFA World Cups and won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996.
With Mosimane back at the helm, SAFA aims to build on the bronze medal finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and to strengthen the squad for the upcoming qualifiers. The national team will begin training in the coming weeks, and fans will be watching closely as the new coach implements his tactical philosophy.
The appointment marks a new chapter for South African football. Mosimane’s experience, combined with SAFA’s support, positions Bafana Bafana to compete for qualification to the next Africa Cup of Nations and to continue developing the country’s footballing talent.
Mosimane’s first stint ended on a sour note. In the final 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, a 0‑0 draw against Sierra Leone in October 2011 was deemed an acceptable result by SAFA, yet a win was required to secure the team’s place. The match’s outcome was later criticized when videos of players celebrating the draw went viral, leaving SAFA leadership feeling embarrassed.
Since that setback, Mosimane has rebuilt his reputation on the club stage. He has lifted the CAF Champions League trophy three times—once with Mamelodi Sundowns and twice with Al‑Ahly—and guided several clubs to domestic titles. His success has made him one of the most sought‑after coaches in African football.
During the press conference announcing his return, Mosimane said, "I have been given the privilege of leading our national team again. I take this responsibility knowing that I still have something to give in football, especially in my country." He added, "I know this is simply not a coaching job; it is bigger than Pitso Mosimane. I understand the weight of this role, the expectations that come with it, and what this team means to South Africa. With pride and determination, I accept the challenge."
Mosimane also clarified why he chose not to keep Helman Mkhalele, the assistant coach who had served under Broos for five years. "Everyone and every coach has his own technical team. Right? And I always want to refer to practical questions," he explained. He compared the decision to the approach of Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti, noting that Ancelotti brings his son to work with him and that the focus should be on the work done rather than personal relationships.
His first priority is to prepare Bafana for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, which begins next month. SAFA’s National Executive Committee approved Mosimane’s appointment on August 8, and the final formalities are expected to be completed shortly.
SAFA, founded in 1991 and admitted to FIFA in 1992, governs all senior national teams and the domestic league system. Bafana Bafana, nicknamed "Young Men," have represented South Africa at four FIFA World Cups and won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996.
With Mosimane back at the helm, SAFA aims to build on the bronze medal finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and to strengthen the squad for the upcoming qualifiers. The national team will begin training in the coming weeks, and fans will be watching closely as the new coach implements his tactical philosophy.
The appointment marks a new chapter for South African football. Mosimane’s experience, combined with SAFA’s support, positions Bafana Bafana to compete for qualification to the next Africa Cup of Nations and to continue developing the country’s footballing talent.
