Hugo Broos set to leave Bafana Bafana as head coach after five years in charge

Hugo Broos is expected to step down as head coach of South Africa’s national football team, bringing an end to a successful five-year spell that transformed the fortunes of Bafana Bafana.

The experienced Belgian manager, who took charge in May 2021 following the departure of Molefi Ntseki, is set to leave after guiding South Africa back among Africa’s leading football nations.

During his tenure, Broos led Bafana Bafana to consistent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) appearances and ended the country’s long absence from the FIFA World Cup by securing qualification for the 2026 tournament—their first appearance since hosting the global showpiece in 2010.

Before the World Cup, the 74-year-old had repeatedly indicated in media interviews that he intended to retire from coaching, explaining that his age and a desire to spend more time with his family had influenced his decision.

Despite the South African Football Association (SAFA) offering him a contract extension that would have kept him in charge through the 2027 AFCON, to be hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, Broos is understood to have turned down the proposal.

Reports suggest the veteran coach felt the offer arrived too late, particularly with South Africa’s next international fixture not scheduled until September 23 and uncertainty surrounding the future of several members of his technical staff.

Changes have already begun within the backroom team following the World Cup. Head tactical and performance analyst Sinesipho Mali has left the national team to join AmaZulu ahead of the new season, while conditioning coach Kopano Melesi confirmed his departure on Thursday.

Several Bafana Bafana players have also taken to social media to pay tribute to Broos, thanking him for his leadership and the impact he made during his time in charge.

SAFA has scheduled a press conference, where the association is widely expected to officially announce Broos’ departure.

With the 2027 AFCON qualifiers on the horizon, focus will now shift to identifying a successor capable of building on the foundations laid by the Belgian and continuing South Africa’s recent resurgence on the international stage.