Pitso Mosimane emerges as favourite to replace Hugo Broos as Bafana Bafana coach

The South African Football Association (SAFA) is expected to move swiftly to appoint a new head coach for Bafana Bafana following Hugo Broos’ departure, with former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly manager Pitso Mosimane emerging as the frontrunner for the role.

Broos’ emotional farewell has brought the curtain down on a highly successful five-year spell in charge of the South African national team, prompting SAFA to accelerate plans to secure his successor ahead of a busy international schedule.

According to reports, the association is keen to finalise the appointment within the coming days, with the aim of having the new coach in place well before Bafana Bafana begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign against Guinea in September.

With Broos’ contract officially expiring on July 31, SAFA is eager to ensure a seamless transition, giving the incoming coach ample time to assemble a technical team and prepare the squad for the crucial qualifiers.

Mosimane has consistently been linked with the national team job and is understood to be SAFA’s preferred candidate.

The veteran tactician boasts one of the most decorated coaching résumés on the continent, having enjoyed remarkable success with Mamelodi Sundowns, Egyptian giants Al Ahly and clubs in the Middle East.

The three-time CAF Champions League-winning coach recently reiterated his ambition to lead Bafana Bafana, further strengthening speculation that he is set to take over.

Should negotiations progress as anticipated, an official announcement is expected soon after Broos’ exit is formally concluded.

The appointment of a new coach is also expected to bring changes to the national team’s technical setup. Several members of Broos’ backroom staff remain uncertain about their futures, including assistant coach Helman Mkhalele, goalkeeper coach Grant Johnson, conditioning coach Kopano Melesi and team doctor Tshepo Molobi.

Meanwhile, tactical and performance analyst Sinesipho Mali has already joined AmaZulu FC ahead of the new season, while Melesi, who is currently attached to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq, has indicated that he will not continue with the senior national team.

Broos leaves behind an impressive legacy after transforming Bafana Bafana into one of Africa’s most competitive national teams. During his tenure, South Africa qualified for consecutive AFCON tournaments and secured a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With another AFCON qualifying campaign set to begin in September, SAFA is determined to conclude its search without delay. Unless there is a late change in direction, all signs point to Mosimane taking over from the departing Belgian and ushering in a new era for Bafana Bafana.