South Africa have brought back Pitso Mosimane as head coach of Bafana Bafana, tasking him with leading the side through the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 qualifying campaign, which begins later this month.

This marks Mosimane's third stint at the helm of the national team. He first served as interim coach for seven matches before Carlos Alberto Parreira, the Brazilian tactician, took over in 2007. He then returned for a longer spell following the 2010 FIFA World Cup on home soil.

A decorated coach facing a tight group

Mosimane is one of African football's most accomplished coaches, having won the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League three times — a haul surpassed only by Portuguese coach Manuel José, who claimed the continental club title on four occasions.

Bafana Bafana face two immediate challenges: a home qualifier against Guinea, followed by a trip to neutral Egypt to face Eritrea. Both sides are placed in Group D, which also includes co-hosts Kenya — managed, notably, by fellow South African Benni McCarthy.

Because Kenya qualify automatically as co-hosts of AFCON 2027, only one team from Group D will secure a place in the 24-team finals. The competition within the pool is fierce.

Record and expectations

Across his previous 23 matches in charge of the national side, Mosimane recorded nine wins, 10 draws, and four defeats. His teams netted 17 goals and conceded just eight — a record that underlines his defensive organisation.

Speaking at a press conference in Johannesburg on Tuesday, Mosimane spoke about the weight of the role he has accepted.