Pitso Mosimane unveiled as Bafana Bafana coach with four-year deal

Pitso Mosimane has returned as South Africa coach, 14 years after his first spell ended, with the 62-year-old promising to build on the foundations laid by predecessor Hugo Broos while targeting improved performances at major tournaments.

Mosimane was officially presented as the new Bafana Bafana manager at South African Football Association headquarters in Nasrec on Tuesday after signing a four-year contract. Dressed in a black suit and light blue shirt, he appeared calm despite the announcement coming almost a month after his appointment was first expected.

The delay was caused by negotiations between his representatives and Safa over salary terms following Broos’ departure.

Mosimane’s return comes after a period in which he developed his reputation domestically and internationally. He said the 14 years since his initial dismissal had given him time to improve his coaching, reflect on his career and gain experience.

His first tenure ended after South Africa failed to qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations. That campaign also included the infamous “Dance of Shame”, when the team mistakenly believed it had secured qualification.

On Tuesday, however, Mosimane struck a notably measured tone. Usually outspoken and direct, he repeatedly expressed gratitude to those who had helped bring him back to lead his country and paid tribute to Broos for the work he had done.

The Belgian left behind a side in a strong position. During his five years in charge, Broos created a competitive and disciplined environment which helped South Africa qualify for successive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and reach the World Cup for the first time in 16 years.

Broos praised Mosimane’s record but also warned that the new coach could undermine that progress if he listened to external pressure, particularly from agents trying to secure international selection for their players.

Mosimane, who has won 21 trophies since leaving the national team, chose not to respond confrontationally.

“I will answer the questions related to my job, which is coaching,” Mosimane said. “I think way before I have recognised and praised Hugo Broos for what he’s done. I appreciate the work Broos has done.

“He has laid very good foundations for us, he has done exceptionally well. I’m not saying it today only, I’ve said it before. He has laid a good foundation for me. I appreciate the work Broos has done and everyone else has done.”

Mosimane also said criticism had played an important role in his development rather than discouraging him.

“Football is a game of opinions,” Mosimane stated. “Criticism is important. It keeps us from getting comfortable and sitting on our laurels. Personally, criticism fuels me a lot.”

Despite recognising Broos’ contribution, Mosimane has decided not to retain the existing technical team. He has instead appointed former trusted colleagues Musi Matlaba and Kabelo Rangoaga as assistant coaches, while considering the addition of a third assistant with greater qualifications and experience.

That decision means there is no place for Helman Mkhalele, who was Broos’ principal source of support and guidance during the Belgian’s time in charge.

“I have people that I’ve been with to several Fifa Club World Cups,” Mosimane stated. “These are people who understand that we’ve worked differently in South Africa, across the continent, and beyond. I have people who I think can support me.”

Immediate focus on qualifying

Mosimane and his backroom staff have already assessed the squad ahead of this month’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea.

He said five significant injuries would force changes, although the new coaching team would also examine emerging South African players and footballers performing well overseas. A friendly match will provide an opportunity to give other members of the squad playing time.

“I am not carrying the biggest broom to sweep here. We have a good foundation from the team that went to the World Cup,” Mosimane said. “We have five major injuries to players who won’t be available, so we need to replace them.

“There’s no time. We just have to replace those who are injured, while also looking at emerging talent and players doing well abroad. Our main focus is the two qualifiers and a friendly game where we can give others a chance.”

Although qualification is the immediate priority, Mosimane knows reaching the tournament will represent only the beginning. He wants South Africa to improve on their third-place finish at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and their Round of 16 appearance at the World Cup.

“We can agree that we had a chance to go further at the World Cup,” Mosimane said. “So, those are the key objectives.”

With expectations high on his return, Mosimane accepts that responsibility for results will rest firmly on his shoulders. His approach, though, is to preserve what has worked while pushing Bafana Bafana towards greater success.