Bafana Bafana have moved up to 48th in the FIFA Men’s World Rankings after three straight wins under returning head coach Pitso Mosimane, with a 1-0 victory over Egypt capping an unbeaten international break.
Three From Three
Mosimane’s second spell in charge began with a 2-1 win over Guinea in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, followed by a 5-0 victory over Eritrea. On Sunday, South Africa finished the break by edging Egypt in Cairo, a third win against increasingly tough opposition.
Core First, Then Changes
In the two qualifiers, Mosimane largely kept the core of the group that represented South Africa at the 2026 FIFA World Cup under Hugo Broos, sticking with the settled players who have developed together at international level. Against Egypt, he showed he was willing to rotate, introducing more youngsters for the trip to Cairo. They delivered an impressive win over a strong Egyptian side.
Building on Broos’s Foundations
The result gives Bafana fresh momentum as Mosimane builds on the foundations laid by Broos while bringing through the next generation.
Back in the Top 50
The rise to 48th carries extra meaning for Mosimane, who previously guided the national team into the FIFA top 50 during his first spell in charge. More than a decade later, he has Bafana back in that bracket. With more AFCON qualifiers next month, the aim is to keep winning and push toward the top 40.
Can Bafana break into the top 40? Tell us in the comments.
