Second time’s a charm: Thabo Nthethe backs Pitso Mosimane to lead Bafana Bafana to success

The second coming of Pitso Mosimane as Bafana Bafana head coach will usher in a new era of success for the national team, according to former defender Thabo Nthethe.

“I think it’s a good call for him given everything he has accomplished. For us South Africans to appoint someone of his calibre to take us further, I think he is more than capable,” Nthethe said in an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.co.za.

Mosimane first took charge of Bafana as a caretaker coach in 2007 prior to the appointment of Carlos Alberto Parreira. Mosimane, then aged 46, was handed the job full-time following the 2010 FIFA World Cup, but was relieved of his duties in 2012.

Following his initial stint with the national team, Mosimane joined Mamelodi Sundowns as head coach, where he truly found his stride. By the time he departed the club in 2020, “The Brazilians” had secured five league titles and a CAF Champions League trophy under his guidance.

Seeking fresh challenges, Mosimane went on to manage prominent clubs in North Africa and the Middle East.

Following his departure from Iranian side Esteghlal in 2025, his sights were set on succeeding Hugo Broos after the FIFA World Cup—a transition that materialised when the 74-year-old Broos retired from management.

Now 62, Mosimane returns as a proven master tactician with a decorated track record to back up his credentials.

“He has gained so much experience since his first stint, and I believe he will do exceptionally well with the national team,” Nthethe added.

“We all know coach Pitso thrives when he has dedicated time to work with his players. At the national level, you get the necessary time to analyze opponents and assess new talent coming into the squad. For me, he is the right leader for Bafana.”

@Michael_Sherman

IOL Sport