Pitso Mosimane has been appointed head coach of South Africa for a second time, succeeding Hugo Broos following the Belgian’s decision to step down after a successful five-year spell in charge of Bafana Bafana.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed the long-awaited appointment on Tuesday, entrusting one of Africa’s most decorated coaches with leading the national team into a new era.
Mosimane, affectionately known as “Jingles”, returns to the national team setup after building an illustrious coaching career that has established him among the continent’s most respected tacticians.
The 56-year-old boasts an impressive record, including three CAF Champions League titles, and now takes charge of a South African side that has enjoyed a significant revival in recent years.
His first assignment will be the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with South Africa set to face Guinea and Eritrea in crucial opening fixtures later this month.
Mosimane replaces Broos, whose tenure transformed the fortunes of the national team after he took over in 2021.
The 74-year-old oversaw a rebuilding process centred on emerging talent, restoring confidence among supporters and guiding Bafana Bafana back into contention on the continental stage.
Among his achievements was leading South Africa to a third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, the country’s best performance at the tournament in more than 20 years.
Broos also guided the team to the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, underlining the progress made during his time in charge.
His departure leaves behind a stable and competitive squad, but also raises expectations for his successor.
Few coaches in African football can match Mosimane’s achievements.
He enjoyed sustained success with Mamelodi Sundowns before further enhancing his reputation at Egyptian giants Al Ahly, where he won multiple continental titles and became one of the most successful coaches in African club football history.
His return offers South Africa the opportunity to build on the foundations laid by Broos while introducing a new tactical approach to a squad that blends experienced internationals with promising young players.
The task ahead will not be straightforward.
South Africa have been drawn in Group D of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers alongside Guinea, Eritrea and co-hosts Kenya. Although Kenya are assured of a place at the finals, South Africa will still need strong results to secure qualification.
With little time to prepare and expectations running high, Mosimane faces immediate pressure to deliver results.
His appointment signals the start of a new chapter for Bafana Bafana, with hopes that one of Africa’s most successful coaches can build on Broos’ legacy and guide South Africa to sustained success on the international stage.
