Pitso Mosimane has been officially reappointed as the head coach of the South Africa men’s national team, according to bbc.com.
The 62-year-old manager returns to the national team setup after previously serving as Bafana Bafana boss between July 2010 and June 2012. He replaces Belgian tactician Hugo Broos, who stepped down following the expiration of his contract at the end of July after five years in charge. Broos notably led the country to a third-placed finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) and guided them to the last 32 of this year’s World Cup, marking South Africa’s first appearance on the global stage since hosting in 2010.
The South Africa Football Association’s executive committee approved Mosimane’s appointment on 8 August. However, the former Mamelodi Sundowns FC mentor was formally unveiled to the media in Johannesburg on Tuesday after finalizing his contract and technical staff details. The exact duration of his contract remains unannounced.
Mosimane’s first period in charge was marked by a tactical miscalculation. Bafana Bafana failed to qualify for the 2012 Afcon after mistakenly believing a final group match draw against Sierra Leone would secure progression. He subsequently parted ways with the national team in June 2012 following a 1-1 home draw against Ethiopia during 2014 World Cup qualification.
Since that departure, Mosimane has built an impressive club résumé. He achieved major domestic and continental success with Sundowns and Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, securing the African Champions League trophy three times. His recent managerial pathway includes stints in Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, and most recently at Iranian outfit Esteghlal.
Mosimane steps back into the international spotlight carrying extensive continental experience, taking over a squad that has recently rebuilt its presence on the international stage.
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