Pitso Mosimane says experience makes him better placed for Bafana Bafana return

Pitso Mosimane says he is better equipped to coach Bafana Bafana now than he was 14 years ago, when his first spell in charge ended with him being sacked by the South African Football Association (Safa).

Mosimane was confirmed as Hugo Broos’ successor at Safa House on Tuesday, returning to the national team role amid heightened expectations following a highly successful coaching career across the continent.

When he first led Bafana Bafana between 2010 and 2012, Mosimane had won two trophies, both with SuperSport United. Since then, he has significantly expanded his medal collection and believes that experience will help him produce a stronger second spell in charge.

“Between the time that I was here and 14 years ago, a lot has happened. You must remember 14 years ago I didn’t win even the MTN8 or Nedbank Cup, never mind any league championship,” Mosimane said when he was finally confirmed as Bafana coach at Safa House on Tuesday.

“But I don’t want to boast about what I have achieved; I think you know, it has been a long journey. I will say there are 21 medals [which I’ve won] between now and 14 years ago.”

The 21 medals underline the change in Mosimane’s standing since his first period with the national side. He now returns as one of Africa’s most decorated coaches, with that progress giving him confidence that his second opportunity can deliver better results.

Mosimane has set out a four-year plan for Bafana Bafana, with improvement at both the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup among his main priorities.

South Africa must perform better than they did at the previous Africa Cup of Nations, he said, while also targeting a stronger showing at the World Cup. The national team qualified for the last 32 at the World Cup for the first time this year.

“We have to do better than we did in the last Afcon, to move better. We have to move much better at the World Cup; it is possible,” he said.

“Those are the key objectives. You have to acknowledge the good work that has been done and don’t be a person who wants to change things.

“I think there is a lot of room for improvement in so many things because I have my own way of working and I have my experience. Broos laid a good foundation for me and I appreciate the work he has done with Bafana.”

Mosimane also acknowledged the work carried out by Broos before his departure. Although he intends to bring his own methods and experience to the national team, he said there was no need to discard the platform established by the Belgian.

His immediate focus will be on the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Eritrea and Guinea. Mosimane is expected to name his squad within the next two weeks as he begins preparations for his return to the Bafana Bafana dugout.