Mosimane Applies for Bafana Bafana Role as SAFA Nears Coaching Decision

The South African Football Association (SAFA) is poised to name the next head coach of the national football team, Bafana BafanaTeam·Bafana Bafana, with a decision anticipated in early August 2026. Among the numerous candidates, former national team coach Pitso Mosimane has officially submitted his application for the coveted role.

The coaching vacancy arose following the departure of Hugo BroosCoach·Hugo Broos in July 2026. Broos concluded a successful five-year tenure, during which he guided South Africa to a historic Round of 32 finish at the 2026 FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup, marking their best-ever performance in the tournament. Under his leadership, Bafana BafanaTeam·Bafana Bafana also secured a third-place finish at the 2024 Africa Cup of NationsCompetition·Africa Cup of Nations, demonstrating significant progress on the continental stage.

Mosimane has openly expressed his strong desire to return to national team coaching, citing "unfinished business" with the squad. His ambition includes leaving a lasting impact at the Africa Cup of NationsCompetition·Africa Cup of Nations and participating in a future FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup. He acknowledged the advancements made by the national team under Broos, stating, "There's room for improvement. We have raised the bar, yes, but we have to leave the jersey in a better place." Mosimane has been without a club since January 2025, when he terminated his contract with Iranian club EsteghlalTeam·Esteghlal due to financial issues.

According to SAFA Technical Committee chairman Jack Maluleke, Mosimane's curriculum vitae has been received, and all candidates, including Mosimane, will undergo a comprehensive interview process. The final decision is expected to be ratified at SAFA's upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which was scheduled for the Saturday following July 31, 2026.

The incoming coach will face the immediate challenge of preparing Bafana BafanaTeam·Bafana Bafana for the 2027 Africa Cup of NationsCompetition·Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. South Africa has been drawn into Group D for the competition, alongside GuineaTeam·Guinea, Kenya, and EritreaTeam·Eritrea, setting the stage for a demanding qualification campaign.