Tapiwa Chawagarira
JOHANNESBURG — South African football heavyweight Pitso Mosimane has returned to the Bafana Bafana hot seat after being officially appointed as the head coach of the national team.
The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed the appointment on Tuesday, ending weeks of speculation about the 62-year-old coach’s return to the national setup.
Mosimane takes over from Belgian coach Hugo Broos and begins his third stint in charge of Bafana Bafana.
His appointment follows an Extraordinary National Executive Committee meeting on August 8, which endorsed him for the position before negotiations concluded.
Mosimane previously coached the national team between 2010 and 2012, following an earlier caretaker spell in 2007.
Speaking after his appointment, Mosimane said he was honored to be given another opportunity to lead his country.
He said that returning to Bafana Bafana was about more than simply taking up another coaching position, emphasising the significance and expectations attached to the national team.
Mosimane’s return comes at a crucial time for South African football, with Bafana Bafana expected to maintain their progress on the international stage and build a competitive side capable of challenging for major continental honours.
The experienced coach brings extensive club and international experience to the role, having previously achieved success with Mamelodi Sundowns and other clubs outside South Africa.
His return is also expected to generate considerable interest among South African football supporters, many of whom remember his previous tenure and achievements at the club level.
SAFA will now look to Mosimane to guide the national team through its upcoming international assignments and further strengthen the team’s standing in African football.
The appointment ends the uncertainty surrounding the Bafana Bafana coaching position and marks the beginning of another chapter in Mosimane’s long association with South African football.
