Why Bafana Legend Believes SA Needs Pitso or Benni After Broos
Former Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo has become the latest respected voice to weigh in on South Africa’s looming coaching succession debate — and he has made it clear who he believes should take the reins next.
With Hugo Broos having publicly confirmed that he will step down after leading South Africa through their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, attention has inevitably turned to who should guide Bafana Bafana into the next cycle. That transition is now just months away, and the conversation has intensified across the local football landscape.
Speaking on SoccerBeat, Mhlongo strongly backed Pitso Mosimane and Benni McCarthy as the standout candidates — dismissing suggestions that Broos’ assistant Helman Mkhalele should immediately be elevated to the top job.
“So my thinking — and I know we’re all entitled to our opinions — I have two coaches in mind,” Mhlongo explained. “The obvious one is Pitso Mosimane. He’s been there, he’s done it, and he understands the dynamics. He works very well with players.”
Crucially, Mosimane himself has recently added fuel to the debate. In previous reports, the serial CAF Champions League winner openly stated: “I am available”, making it clear that he would not turn his back on a Bafana Bafana approach should it materialise. That declaration, combined with his vast experience of pressure, success, failure and rebuilding at the highest level, has kept his name firmly at the centre of the discussion.
Mhlongo also made a strong case for McCarthy, pointing to his recent work under difficult circumstances abroad. “The second would be Benni McCarthy for me,” he said. “Going into tough environments and still getting results shows character. He gives young players opportunities, he understands modern players, and he has a big profile — something you need after Broos.”
While praising both, Mhlongo urged patience with others. He suggested Mkhalele remain as assistant to continue his development, potentially leading COSAFA tournaments, while ruling out Rulani Mokwena for now, arguing that national team management demands emotional scars forged through major defeats as much as victories.
The debate mirrors earlier reports that framed South Africa’s crossroads as a choice between Mosimane’s proven, serial-winning authority and McCarthy’s progressive, player-driven approach. With Broos’ exit now confirmed and Mosimane openly available, the pressure is mounting on SAFA to decide not just who comes next — but what kind of future Bafana Bafana truly wants.