Maboe believes Mosimane’s league knowledge can lift Bafana Bafana

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lebohang Maboe has backed Pitso Mosimane to succeed after returning as head coach of Bafana Bafana, saying his detailed knowledge of the South African game and its players gives him a significant advantage.

Mosimane is preparing to name his preliminary squad for South Africa’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea-Conakry and Eritrea, as well as the confirmed international friendly against Egypt.

Maboe, who was signed by Mosimane for Mamelodi Sundowns from Maritzburg United, now known as Durban City, believes the coach’s understanding of the domestic game will help him make an immediate impact with the national team.

“Congratulations to coach Pitso, I’m very happy for him. I think he is going to do well in the national team setup because he knows this league and its players so well.”

Mosimane previously worked with Maboe at Mamelodi Sundowns, where the midfielder developed into the versatile player he is today. The 62-year-old coach used him in a variety of roles, helping shape his ability to operate across midfield and in wider areas.

Maboe was also included in the preliminary squad for the World Cup and is expected to be among the players under consideration when Mosimane selects his group for the upcoming fixtures.

The Kaizer Chiefs midfielder will be hoping his recent performances strengthen his case. He scored from the penalty spot in last week’s 2-2 draw with Richards Bay FC, ending a wait for a goal that had lasted since 26 May 2021.

His previous goal came during Mamelodi Sundowns’ 3-1 victory over the now-defunct SuperSport United. The gap between the two goals highlights one area Maboe wants to improve during the current season.

“At Chiefs, Maboe has mainly operated in two familiar midfield positions: as an eight and as a six. His time at Mamelodi Sundowns also saw him tested as a 10 and as a wing-back, underlining the range of roles he can perform.

He said his responsibilities at Kaizer Chiefs have not changed dramatically under head coach Fernando Da Cruz, although the demands placed on him during matches are different.

“Not much has changed because I’m still playing in my preferred position, but I’m asked to play in a different way because it’s about what the picture looks like on the field, and that will determine the spaces I need to exploit and the positions I need to occupy.”

Maboe’s versatility could prove useful to Mosimane as Bafana Bafana begin preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations campaign. The midfielder’s ability to play in several positions, combined with his familiarity with the national set-up, could keep him in contention for selection as the coach builds his squad.

For now, Maboe’s focus is on improving his personal numbers and contributing more goals, while Mosimane prepares to begin his latest spell in charge of South Africa.