Pitso Mosimane returns as Bafana Bafana head coach

by Chumasande Matiwane

Pitso Mosimane has officially returned to the Bafana Bafana dugout after being announced as the new head coach of the South African national team. 

Also see: Bafana Bafana veteran Ramahlwe Mphahlele hangs up his boots 

The appointment marks Mosimane’s second permanent spell in charge of Bafana Bafana and comes after the departure of Belgian coach Hugo Broos.  

The return brings one of South Africa’s most decorated coaches back to the national setup at a crucial stage for the team. 

A return to the national team

Mosimane previously coached Bafana Bafana from 2010 to 2012, after earlier serving as a caretaker coach in 2007. His first permanent tenure ended after South Africa failed to qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations. 

According to iDiski, fourteen years later, Mosimane returns with significantly more international experience. Since leaving the national team, he has built an impressive coaching résumé, including continental success with Mamelodi Sundowns and Egyptian giants Al Ahly. His record has made him one of the most successful South African coaches on the African football stage.  

The South African Football Association’s (SAFA) National Executive Committee approved Mosimane’s appointment in August, paving the way for his return. SAFA has described the decision as part of its efforts to strengthen the national team following Broos’ departure. 

Also see: SAFA set to unveil new Bafana Bafana head coach soon

New era for Bafana Bafana

Mosimane arrives with a wealth of experience from some of Africa’s biggest clubs as he takes over at an important moment for South African football.  

Bafana Bafana are coming off a historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in which the team reached the knockout stage, and expectations will now be high for the returning coach to build on that progress.  

His immediate focus will include the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with Bafana Bafana scheduled to begin their qualification fixtures later in September.  

The challenge will be to combine the momentum generated by the previous national team setup with Mosimane’s own tactical approach and experience. 

The key question will be whether he can translate that experience into sustained success with the national team. 

For now, one thing is certain: Pitso Mosimane is back in charge of Bafana Bafana, and South African football has entered another significant chapter under one of its most accomplished coaches. 

His second spell will be closely watched by supporters across South Africa and the continent. 

Also see: Bafana Bafana climb 6 places in FIFA rankings after World Cup

Featured image: X/@iDiskiTimes

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