Pitso Mosimane has returned to his role as Bafana Bafana coach, 14 years after his first stint ended in disappointment. Mosimane, who was appointed earlier this month, will begin his second tenure with a match against Guinea at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday. The team will then face Eritrea at a neutral Al Salam Stadium in Cairo four days later, followed by an international friendly against Egypt on October 4. Mosimane is eager to make a positive impact and return the team to the pinnacle of African football.
Mosimane's return to Bafana Bafana is a sentimental one, as the Orlando Amstel Arena is the birthplace of his mother and a venue where he previously played for Orlando Pirates. During his playing career, Mosimane also played for Jomo Cosmos and Mamelodi Sundowns, where he won multiple trophies as a coach. Mosimane has expressed his excitement about returning to the venue, stating that it has evolved since his playing days and is now known as the Orlando Amstel Arena.
Mosimane has named a balanced squad for his first match, comprising seniors, returnees, and youth players. He believes this mix will foster continuity and bring a fresh perspective to the team. Mosimane is energized by the prospect of giving young players a chance to shine, citing Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who plays in the MLS, as an example. He wants to create a pathway for young players to progress to the national team and compete in major tournaments.
Mosimane's primary goal is to qualify for major tournaments and compete strongly in them. He acknowledges that the 2027 AFCON qualifiers are a priority, but also emphasizes the importance of the World Cup. Mosimane has presented his vision to SAFA, outlining his plans to improve the team's strengths and weaknesses. He believes that with the right tools and approach, the team can achieve its objectives.
Mosimane's return to coaching followed a period of unemployment since late 2024, during which he analyzed Bafana's historic World Cup knockout stage finish as a fan. He also launched the Pitso Mosimane School Football Academy, which focuses on nurturing young talent, and his podcast, Changing the Game with Pitso Mosimane. Mosimane was courted by several clubs, but chose to wait for the SAFA job, which he believes is his dream role.
Mosimane's experience and success in the local top flight and abroad make him a strong candidate to lead Bafana Bafana to success. He has a proven track record of building a winning culture, which he hopes to establish at Orlando Amstel Arena. Mosimane is confident that the team's fans will come out in support, citing the enthusiasm of Soweto people for football.
Mosimane's grand return will be marked by a challenging four-year period, during which he aims to qualify for major tournaments and compete strongly in them. He will need to drive his players to elevate their performance, and healthy competition will be essential in achieving this goal. With his vision, experience, and passion for the game, Mosimane is poised to make a lasting impact on Bafana Bafana.
Key points
- Mosimane returns to Bafana Bafana with a refreshed squad and a focus on qualifying for major tournaments.
