Pitso Mosimane returns as Bafana Bafana coach with a renewed vision

Pitso Mosimane has returned as the coach of South Africa's national football team, Bafana Bafana, after a 14-year hiatus. The 62-year-old South African football coach signed a four-year deal with the country's football federation, Safa, on Tuesday, unveiling himself as the new Bafana Bafana coach. The presentation was delayed by nearly a month due to salary negotiations between Mosimane's representatives and Safa.

Mosimane, known for his candid nature, was subdued and humble during the proceedings, thanking everyone involved in his return to the national team and praising his predecessor, Hugo Broos, for laying a solid foundation. Broos ensured Mosimane inherited a strong team that had qualified for the African Cup of Nations (Afcon) for the past two years and had even secured a spot in the World Cup for the first time in 16 years.

Despite the praise, Mosimane wants to carve his own path, acknowledging that Broos's work should not be undermined by outside noise or interference. He has already appointed his trusted assistants, Musi Matlaba and Kabelo Rangoaga, and plans to bring in a third assistant coach. Mosimane will focus on rebuilding the squad for the upcoming 2027 Afcon qualifiers, addressing injuries, and scouting emerging talent.

His main objectives are to improve on the third-place finish at the 2023 Afcon and aiming for a better performance in the World Cup.