Jordaan warns Mosimane of high stakes as second Bafana Bafana spell begins

SAFA president Dr Danny Jordaan has told Pitso Mosimane that there will be almost no margin for error as he returns to lead South Africa, with the team’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match described as “close” to a must-win.

Mosimane was officially unveiled as Bafana Bafana head coach at SAFA House on Tuesday morning, beginning his second spell in the role. He previously managed the national side from 2010 to 2012.

Jordaan welcomed Mosimane’s appointment but immediately focused on the importance of South Africa’s first group fixture. Bafana Bafana are due to face Guinea, Kenya and Eritrea in the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers.

Although South Africa are ranked 10th in Africa, Jordaan said that FIFA and CAF rankings would have little value once the matches begin.

“Bafana are ranked 10th in Africa, we play against Guinea, Kenya and Eritrea, ranked lower than us – but you know in football it doesn’t matter where FIFA or CAF ranks you,” Jordaan said.

“It depends on the 11 players on the field, the preparation and determination of the players.”

Jordaan said the first match of Mosimane’s second tenure could prove decisive in establishing the direction of the campaign and the broader ambitions attached to the coach’s return.

“That is what we are facing in the first game, probably the most important in the group. I don’t wanna say it’s a must-win but it’s close to that,” he added.

“It will set the path; the kind of history we want to create for Bafana and the pathway you have expressed in your presentations.”

Mosimane has returned to the national team with considerable responsibility. His plans for the 2026-2030 period are expected to contribute to a wider strategy for the future of South African football.

The appointment also prompted Jordaan to recognise the work of Mosimane’s wife, Moira Tlhagale, particularly her involvement in the development of South Africa’s football infrastructure around the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

“I wanna wish you and Moira all the success. I worked with her in 2010 – building all of the stadiums,” he said.

“We must acknowledge the role you played in 2010, and the recognition of the stadiums we use for Bafana Bafana, events, even rugby.”

With Mosimane now formally back in charge, Jordaan described the appointment as the beginning of a fresh phase for the national team and the country’s football programme.

“So let the work begin,” he said. “With the new Pitso era we starting now, I don’t know if it’s version 2, but Pitso vision 2026-2030 is what drives the future of South African football. All the best to your team, and your technical team.”

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