Pitso Mosimane has officially been unveiled as the new head coach of Bafana Bafana, returning to the national team for a second permanent spell.
Mosimane was presented at SAFA House on Tuesday, ending weeks of negotiations over his appointment and technical team.
The South African Football Association’s National Executive Committee approved his appointment in August, but SAFA president Danny Jordaan said at the time that several details still needed to be finalised.
Mosimane succeeds Hugo Broos, who led South Africa to the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time.
Mosimane returns to national team
Speaking after his appointment, Mosimane said he understood the significance of returning to coach his country.
“I know that this is bigger than Pitso Mosimane. I accept this role with great humility,” he said.
Mosimane previously coached Bafana Bafana between 2010 and 2012 after also serving as an assistant and caretaker coach.
His first spell ended after South Africa failed to qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
Since then, Mosimane has built a successful club coaching career.
He won the CAF Champions League with Mamelodi Sundowns in 2016 before winning the continental competition twice with Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
AFCON qualifiers first major test
Mosimane’s immediate focus will be the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
South Africa are scheduled to face Guinea and Eritrea in September.
The new coach is expected to announce his first Bafana Bafana squad on Wednesday at 12:00.
That selection will provide the first indication of how Mosimane plans to build on the progress made during Broos’ tenure.
Technical team takes shape
Mosimane is expected to include familiar members of his backroom staff in the national setup.
Fitness coach Kabelo Rangoaga and performance analyst Musi Matlaba have been identified as part of his technical team, while another assistant coaching position is still expected to be confirmed.
Mosimane said he views the appointment as more than another coaching job.
“I take this responsibility knowing that I still have something to give in football, especially in my country,” he said.
His return comes with heightened expectations after Bafana Bafana’s historic World Cup campaign and a demanding AFCON qualifying schedule ahead.