Football

Pitso Mosimane Reveals Why He Chose Part-Time Coaches for Bafana Bafana Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers

Published 22 Sep 2026 at 9:26 AM

by Dzikamai Matara

3 min read

Pitso Mosimane has taken a different approach to assembling his Bafana Bafana technical team, with several familiar names set to operate on a part-time basis
The decision has raised questions about why the national team setup is being structured this way as Mosimane begins his latest spell in charge
Mosimane has now explained the deliberate thinking behind the arrangement — and it goes beyond simply filling technical positions

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Pitso Mosimane has opened up about one of the more unusual features of his new Bafana Bafana setup, explaining why some members of his technical team will not work with the national side full-time. The coach addressed the issue after his first training session at the UJ Stadium on Monday, 21 September, as Bafana began preparing for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

While the part-time arrangement may seem practical, Mosimane said it serves a bigger purpose. He wants Bafana to become a platform where South African coaches can gain international experience while contributing their existing expertise.

Marcus Mashilo among Mosimane’s part-time choices

The approach is reflected in the appointment of goalkeeper coach Marcus Mashilo, who has previously worked with Mosimane at Mamelodi Sundowns. Mashilo has also worked alongside Manqoba Mngqithi and Rulani Mokwena at Sundowns before later having spells at Golden Arrows and Marumo Gallants.

Mosimane highlighted that experience when explaining why Mashilo was brought into the Bafana setup.

“Marcus is helping us with the goalkeeping department,” he said.

Mosimane further pointed to Mashilo’s track record with established goalkeepers, saying he had worked with players such as Denis Onyango and Kennedy Mweene. He also noted that Mashilo had been part of teams that won several trophies during his time at Mamelodi Sundowns.

Bafana prepare for Guinea AFCON qualifier

Mosimane’s coaching structure comes as Bafana prepare for their first competitive assignment of his latest tenure. South Africa will face Guinea at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, 26 September, in their opening 2027 AFCON qualifier.

Mosimane has also brought in Tshepo Leuta Mahao to assist Musi Matlaba with analysis and data, while Kabelo Rangoaga continues in the performance and fitness department.

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane is also expected to contribute on a part-time basis.

Bafana will then travel to Cairo to face Eritrea as their qualifying campaign continues.

For Mosimane, the early focus is therefore not only on preparing the team for Guinea, but also on creating a technical structure that gives local coaching talent exposure to international football.

Pitso Mosimane faces Sundowns celebration questions

Briefly News previously reported that Pitso Mosimane's return to Bafana Bafana had already attracted attention beyond his work on the training pitch. A video appearing to show the coach celebrating Mamelodi Sundowns' victory over Al Ahli sparked a divided reaction among South African football fans.