Photo: SAFA
Hugo Broos has officially confirmed his departure as Bafana Bafana head coach, ending a transformative five-year spell that saw South Africa return to the top tier of African football and make history at the FIFA World Cup.
The 74-year-old Belgian tactician announced his decision during an interview with Belgian publication Voetbalnieuws, confirming that his tenure as South Africa’s national team coach has come to an end.
Appointed in June 2021, Broos inherited a Bafana Bafana side struggling for consistency and international relevance. Over the next five years, he rebuilt the squad into one of Africa’s most competitive national teams, earning widespread praise for his faith in young players, disciplined approach, and long-term vision.
His biggest achievement came at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he guided Bafana Bafana to the knockout stages for the first time in the nation’s history. South Africa’s memorable campaign captured the imagination of football fans across the country before ending in a narrow Round of 32 defeat to Canada.
Broos also restored Bafana Bafana’s standing on the African continent by securing qualification for two consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments. His crowning continental achievement came at AFCON 2023 in Côte d’Ivoire, where South Africa claimed a bronze medal—the nation’s best finish at the tournament in more than two decades.
During his five years in charge, Broos became the longest-serving Bafana Bafana head coach, overseeing a new generation of players while instilling a winning mentality and a clear football identity. His leadership played a crucial role in South Africa’s resurgence on the international stage.
With Broos stepping down, the South African Football Association (SAFA) now begins the search for a new head coach to lead Bafana Bafana into the next AFCON qualifying campaign and future international competitions.
Former Mamelodi Sundowns, Al Ahly and Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has already emerged as one of the leading names linked with the vacancy. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has publicly backed Mosimane as his preferred successor, although SAFA is expected to conduct a comprehensive recruitment process before making a final appointment.
As Hugo Broos prepares to leave the Bafana Bafana dugout, he departs as one of the most influential coaches in South African football history. His legacy is defined by rebuilding a proud football nation, developing a fearless new generation of players, delivering AFCON success, and leading South Africa to a historic FIFA World Cup knockout appearance.
For many supporters, Broos will be remembered as the coach who restored belief in Bafana Bafana and laid the foundation for the team’s future success.
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