Pitso Mosimane has been formally appointed as coach of Bafana Bafana, returning to the national team more than a decade after his first spell in charge.
The 62-year-old succeeds Belgian Hugo Broos, who stepped down after guiding South Africa to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — the country’s first appearance in the World Cup knockout phase.
Mosimane’s immediate priority will be the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. South Africa are scheduled to host Guinea in their opening match later this month, with Kenya and Eritrea also in their group. Kenya are co-hosts of the tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda and have automatic qualification.
The appointment marks a second opportunity for Mosimane to lead Bafana Bafana. His first permanent tenure, from 2010 to 2012, ended after South Africa failed to qualify for the 2012 AFCON. The campaign was also remembered for confusion surrounding qualification calculations following a draw with Sierra Leone.
Mosimane subsequently built a distinguished record in African club football. He guided Mamelodi Sundowns to the CAF Champions League title in 2016 before winning the competition twice with Egypt’s Al Ahly. He also secured three CAF Super Cup titles.
His coaching career has since taken him to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Iran, giving him experience beyond South Africa and strengthening his credentials as one of Africa’s most successful coaches.
His return comes at a different moment for Bafana Bafana. South Africa have made significant progress under Broos, including their historic World Cup run, and Mosimane will be expected to maintain that momentum while establishing his own tactical approach.
Guinea will provide an early test. Although they missed the 2025 AFCON, they possess considerable international experience, including Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy.
Mosimane’s contract reportedly runs through the 2030 World Cup cycle, providing an opportunity to build beyond the immediate AFCON campaign. His return also places renewed attention on the contribution of African coaches at the highest levels of the continental game.
