RANKING BOMBSHELL! Mosimane Makes Major Bafana Bafana Promise After Rise to FIFA Top 50

SOUTH AFRICAN FOOTBALL NEWS | 23 OCTOBER 2026

Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane has vowed to continue scheduling matches against strong international opposition as South Africa looks to improve its position in the FIFA world rankings and strengthen its prospects ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Mosimane’s comments come after Bafana Bafana climbed to 48th place in the global rankings, placing them among the top 50 national teams in the world. South Africa currently occupy 10th position in Africa, with the coach determined to push the team higher through carefully selected international fixtures.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mosimane explained that the rise in the rankings was the result of deliberate planning rather than luck. He pointed to South Africa’s victories over Guinea and Eritrea in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers, followed by an important friendly victory against Egypt, who were ranked third in Africa and 25th in the world at the time described in the report.

The coach acknowledged the work done during Hugo Broos’ tenure while emphasising the importance of building on the progress already achieved.

Mosimane Refuses to Take the Easier Route

Mosimane made it clear that he would not choose weaker opponents simply to protect his position as head coach. Instead, he believes Bafana Bafana must challenge themselves against stronger nations if they want to accumulate valuable ranking points.

According to the coach, victories against highly ranked teams can offer greater rewards than wins against lower-ranked opposition.

He also acknowledged the risks associated with this strategy, explaining that playing stronger opponents requires courage because poor results can undermine the team's ranking ambitions.

Mosimane drew on his previous experience in charge of the national team, recalling that he deliberately arranged demanding friendlies despite the professional consequences that could follow mixed results.

His current approach reflects a similar philosophy: prioritising long-term progress over short-term comfort.

AFCON Seeding Becomes a Major Objective

South Africa’s ranking could have important implications for the 2027 AFCON draw. Moving into the top six or seven teams in Africa could strengthen Bafana Bafana’s seeding prospects and potentially reduce the likelihood of facing several of the continent’s strongest sides in the early stages.

However, the final seeding arrangements will depend on the applicable tournament regulations and the rankings used by the organisers.

A stronger ranking could also benefit South African footballers pursuing opportunities abroad, as international performances and the national team's standing can contribute to the broader profile of players.

More Players to Get Their Opportunity

With the next international friendlies expected in June ahead of AFCON, Mosimane intends to use the intervening period to identify and assess additional players.

The challenge will be to expand the player pool while maintaining the competitive standards that have helped Bafana Bafana improve their standing.

For Mosimane, the mission is clear: South Africa must continue testing itself against quality opposition, collecting valuable results and building a team capable of competing with Africa’s leading nations.

The coming months will reveal whether that strategy can translate into further ranking gains and a stronger position heading into the continental showpiece.

Source https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2113499612262592606