Hugo Broos confirms Bafana Bafana exit after historic five-year spell

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has confirmed that he will leave his position as South Africa’s national team coach.

The Belgian tactician announced his decision during an interview with Belgian publication Voetbalnieuws, bringing an end to a successful five-year tenure in charge of Bafana.

Broos, 74, became the longest-serving head coach in Bafana Bafana history after taking over the national team in June 2021. His time at the helm was marked by a major turnaround in South Africa’s fortunes on the international stage.

Under his leadership, Bafana achieved one of their greatest milestones in recent history by reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time. He also guided the team to qualification for two consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, including a memorable bronze medal finish at the 2023 AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.

Broos’ departure now leaves the South African Football Association (SAFA) with the task of finding a new head coach ahead of the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has previously backed Pitso Mosimane as his preferred candidate to take over from Broos and lead Bafana Bafana into their next chapter.