{
  "id": 12121903,
  "title": "OPINION: Bafana’s new era under Mosimane is showing promise",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/05/opinion-bafanas-new-era-under-mosimane-is-showing-promise",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-05T09:29:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/opinion-bafanas-new-era-under-mosimane-is-showing-promise/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Pitso Mosimane's new era as Bafana Bafana coach is showing great promise, according to an opinion piece. The coach understands the nation's football heritage and is determined to elevate the team beyond mere competence. In just three matches, Bafana has achieved a brilliant start with three wins, setting a high bar for future performances. Mosimane has instilled a sense of competition within the squad, ensuring that only the top performers earn their places. Star players Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Khuliso Mudau will face stiff competition to secure their spots, particularly when fit. This intensified competition is beneficial for the team, as it ensures that fringe players are battle-ready for crucial games. The victory over Egypt, achieved with a second-string side, demonstrates the squad's depth and readiness. The team was at full strength, save for Mohamed Salah, who managed to secure a win against the odds. Despite Mosimane making nine changes to the team that had previously defeated Eritrea, Bafana still delivered a winning performance. This transformation is the most encouraging aspect of Mosimane's early reign. Mosimane is playing the long game, with a clear goal of winning the Africa Cup of Nations. The former coach of Mamelodi Sundowns and Al-Ahly has set high standards for his players and is demanding more from them. While it is still early in the process, the signs are encouraging, and the journey back to the top of African football is off to a strong start.",
  "summary": "His message to his Bafana Bafana players is simple, good is simply not good enough.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}