Pitso Mosimane named South Africa coach ahead of AFCON qualifiers

South Africa’s national football team has appointed former Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns coach Pitso Mosimane as its new manager, following the dismissal of Belgian coach Hugo Broos after the team’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mosimane, who led the national side to a historic quarter‑final appearance in 2010, is expected to bring his experience and familiarity with the country’s football culture to the role.

Broos was hired in 2023 with the aim of revitalising the Bafana Bafana squad, but the team failed to progress beyond the group stage in the World Cup, losing to the United States, Wales and Iran. The decision to replace him came after a series of disappointing results in the Confederations Cup and World Cup qualifiers, prompting the South African Football Association to seek a more locally grounded approach.

Mosimane’s appointment signals a return to a coach who has previously guided the national team to a successful campaign and who is well‑versed in the domestic league’s talent pipeline. The federation hopes his leadership will restore confidence and build a more competitive squad for upcoming continental and international fixtures.