Pitso Mosimane approved for Bafana Bafana return after Hugo Broos departure

Pitso Mosimane is set to return as South Africa head coach after the South African Football Association’s (SAFA) National Executive Committee approved his appointment.

Mosimane’s return to Bafana Bafana follows Hugo Broos’ departure. Broos retired from coaching when his contract ended on 31 July, having led South Africa to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

SAFA’s NEC backed Mosimane during an Extraordinary NEC Meeting held at SAFA House on Saturday. However, the appointment still depends on several final details being completed before it can be officially confirmed.

“The NEC has approved the appointment of coach Pitso to Bafana Bafana, but we still need to tie up some loose ends. We will make a formal announcement of the coach next week,” SAFA president Dr Danny Jordaan said following the meeting.

The 62-year-old would begin a second spell in charge of the national team, having previously managed Bafana Bafana from 2010 to 2012.

Mosimane left the role after South Africa failed to qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations. He subsequently established himself as one of the most successful coaches in African club football during spells with Mamelodi Sundowns and Egyptian side Al Ahly.

At Mamelodi Sundowns, Mosimane won five Betway Premiership titles and guided the club to their first CAF Champions League triumph in 2016.

He later added two more CAF Champions League victories with Al Ahly, becoming the first African coach to win the competition with two different clubs.

His expected appointment comes at a significant moment for South African football. Broos helped Bafana Bafana qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 2010 and also guided the team to consecutive Africa Cup of Nations appearances.

Mosimane will therefore be tasked with building on the progress achieved during Broos’ tenure while meeting the increased expectations surrounding the national team.

Bafana Bafana are preparing for the next stage of their international programme, including their campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Mosimane’s immediate challenge will be to preserve South Africa’s upward momentum and improve the team’s prospects on the continental stage.

SAFA’s formal announcement is expected next week. That confirmation would end the uncertainty over the national team position following Broos’ departure and complete Mosimane’s return to the post he previously held between 2010 and 2012.