Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has warned his players that past achievements will not guarantee them a place in his starting line-up as he begins his second stint in charge of the national team.
Also see: Pitso Mosimane reveals 1st Bafana Bafana squad ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign
Mosimane made the comments as South Africa prepares for its opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Guinea at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 26 September 2026.
Mosimane has welcomed the return of forwards Luther Singh and Cassius Mailula but stressed that every player will have to compete for their place in the squad.
According to IOL, Pitso spoke at the media briefing, saying, “We have to respect those who have done it before these boys here,” emphasising that football continues to evolve.
Mosimane also said the players reported to camp without issues and praised their attitude towards representing the national team.
“I feel good because that shows that the boys have respect for the emblem of the national team,” he said.
Pitso Mosimane warns no automatic places
A key message from Mosimane’s first press conference was that players cannot expect automatic selection simply because they have represented South Africa at major tournaments.
He specifically highlighted the importance of humility and competition within the squad, noting that players who were part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup setup should not assume that their previous involvement guarantees another opportunity.
The coach said the attitude shown by the returning players was encouraging and that he could sense their desire to prove themselves, IOL reports.
Singh and Mailula are among those facing competition for attacking positions. Mosimane noted that Singh would have to compete with players such as Oswin Appollis, while Mailula would have to fight for opportunities alongside Relebohile Mofokeng.
Also see: How Pitso Mosimane transformed since his last Bafana Bafana job
WATCH | Returning Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane is beaming with excitement pride after learning of the “humility” of the players in his first camp since he returned to the national side for his second spell early this month. pic.twitter.com/PBNCtmo6Ix
— Sowetan (@Sowetan1981) September 21, 2026
Competition ahead of AFCON qualifiers
Mosimane’s approach comes as Bafana prepare for an important qualifying campaign. Bafana Bafana are scheduled to face Guinea at 15:00 on Saturday at Orlando Stadium, before travelling to Cairo to play Eritrea.
The coach has also begun putting his technical structure in place, with an emphasis on South African coaching expertise.
His staff includes goalkeeper coach Marcus Mashilo, performance analyst Musi Matlaba and fitness coach Kabelo Rangoaga, while other specialists are expected to contribute on a part-time basis during camps.
As competition for places intensifies, Mosimane’s message is clear: past achievements may earn players respect, but selection will continue to depend on what they contribute to the national team now.
Also see: Pitso Mosimane’s Bafana Bafana assistant coach confirmed
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