South Africa’s Bafana Bafana appoint Pitso Mosimane as Head Coach to fix national team’s woes
The South African Football Association has reappointed Pitso Mosimane as head coach of Bafana Bafana, ending months of speculation following Hugo Broos’s departure.
Mosimane’s return marks a major homecoming for one of Africa’s most successful football managers. He will lead South Africa into its upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with expectations high that he can restore consistency and challenge for major honours.
Mosimane Returns a More Experienced Coach
The coach returning to the national team is a more accomplished figure than the manager who left in 2012.
Since then, Mosimane has won three CAF Champions League titles, several domestic trophies and gained valuable experience in South Africa, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Iran.
His success at club level has strengthened his reputation as one of the continent’s leading coaches. He is also familiar with the demands of South African football and understands the pressure attached to managing Bafana Bafana.
A Difficult First Spell With Bafana
Mosimane first took full charge of Bafana Bafana in July 2010 after working as an assistant to Carlos Alberto Parreira during the 2010 Fifa World Cup.
He had previously served as caretaker coach between 2006 and 2007. His permanent appointment began positively, with South Africa recording a 1-0 victory over Ghana.
However, his tenure ended in June 2012 after Bafana failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations. A draw against Sierra Leone in the final qualifier proved costly, as South Africa needed a win to secure qualification.
Mosimane left with a record of six wins, eight draws and three defeats in 17 matches.
Success at Mamelodi Sundowns
His career changed dramatically after he joined Mamelodi Sundowns in late 2012.
Mosimane guided the club to five Premier Soccer League titles, multiple domestic cups and the 2016 CAF Champions League—the first in Sundowns’ history.
The club also won the CAF Super Cup in 2017. During his time in Pretoria, Sundowns became one of Africa’s most competitive and tactically organised teams.
Al Ahly Success Strengthened His Reputation
In 2020, Mosimane moved to Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
He won consecutive CAF Champions League titles in 2020 and 2021, along with an Egyptian league and cup double. He also led Al Ahly to two CAF Super Cup victories and consecutive third-place finishes at the Fifa Club World Cup.
His later coaching experience in the Middle East added to his knowledge of different football environments and strengthened his ability to manage pressure at the highest level.
Bafana’s Next Match
Mosimane’s first major test will come as Bafana prepare to face Guinea.
The match is scheduled for Wednesday, September 23, 2026, with kick-off at 6pm South African time.
The fixture will offer an early look at Mosimane’s tactical plans and the players he intends to build around.
Pressure on the New Coach
Mosimane’s appointment has raised expectations among South African supporters. His immediate task will be to improve Bafana’s consistency and ensure the team remains competitive in Africa.
He will also need to balance experienced players with emerging talent while working within the limited preparation time available to international coaches.
For SAFA, the decision represents a return to a coach who knows the local game but now brings considerably more experience than during his first spell.
For Mosimane, it is a chance to complete unfinished business with the national team.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Pitso Mosimane previously coach Bafana Bafana?
He became the team’s full-time coach in July 2010 and left in June 2012.
How many CAF Champions League titles has Mosimane won?
He has won three CAF Champions League titles—one with Mamelodi Sundowns and two with Al Ahly.
When is Bafana Bafana’s next match?
South Africa will face Guinea on September 23, 2026, at 6pm SAST.
Why was Mosimane reappointed?
His record, international experience and knowledge of South African football made him a strong candidate to lead Bafana Bafana.