Mosimane Promises To Raise Standards Beyond Broos Era
Newly appointed Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane says he fully understands the pressure that comes with taking charge of the national team, insisting his immediate target is to raise the bar even higher.
South Africa experienced a remarkable resurgence over the past five years under Hugo Broos, who took over from Molefi Ntseki in May 2021.
Broos stepped down at the end of July following a historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign that saw Bafana Bafana reach the knockout stages for the first time. The 74-year-old Belgian tactician also led South Africa to a bronze medal at the 2023 AFCON—their first podium finish in 22 years.
Mosimane now faces the challenge of building on that momentum, with the ultimate goal of delivering a second continental crown to add to the nation’s historic 1996 title.
While SAFA disclosed the four-year duration of his contract, Mosimane—returning for his second stint after managing the team between 2010 and 2012—is well aware of the expectations awaiting him. He arrives alongside two trusted backroom members: performance analyst Muzi Matlaba and fitness coach Kabelo Rangoaga.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns boss, a three-time CAF Champions League winner, revealed he is working with SAFA Technical Director Ntseki to finalize an assistant coach after their primary target proved unavailable.
“My responsibility is to take the team forward and raise the standard even further,” Mosimane said.
“When I presented to SAFA, the technical director, and the board members, the plan went beyond just the next match, because a national team setup doesn’t only turn on when a camp opens.”
Mosimane is the only African coach to win three Champions League titles (Sundowns 2016, Al Ahly 2020 & 2021) establishes authoritative pedigree when comparing his credentials to Broos’ 2017 AFCON triumph with Cameroon.
Prior to the official appointment, Broos sparked debate by suggesting Mosimane could face pressure from player agents—an interference the former coach strictly rejected during his five-year tenure. Mosimane, however, took the high road, choosing to focus on Broos’ achievements rather than engaging in a war of words.
“I will answer questions related to the actual job, which is coaching the football team,” Mosimane said.
“Way before today, I recognized what he accomplished. He laid a very, very good foundation and did exceptionally well. I didn’t just say it today; I said it during the World Cup. He left a strong foundation for me, and I appreciate what he has done.”
Mosimane’s first official fixtures in charge will be the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea on September 23, followed by an away test against Eritrea four days later.
