SAFA Confirms Morena Ramoreboli: Coach Joins Bafana Bafana as Assistant

The South African Football Association (SAFA) has officially confirmed that Coach Morena Ramoreboli will step down from his role as Head Coach of Botswana’s senior men’s national team, The Zebras, to join the Bafana Bafana technical team.

In a joint statement, SAFA said: “Coach Morena Ramoreboli will leave his position as Head Coach of the Botswana Senior Men’s National Team, The Zebras, to join the Bafana Bafana technical team as Assistant Coach to Head Coach Pitso Mosimane, ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign.”

The announcement highlights the close footballing ties between South Africa and Botswana. “The transition reflects the strong footballing relationship between the two neighbouring countries and provides Ramoreboli with an opportunity to continue his coaching journey at the highest level of African football,” the statement added. “Both Associations acknowledge his significant contribution to Botswana football during his tenure and wish him every success as he begins this new chapter.”

Ramoreboli is no stranger to the Bafana Bafana setup. He previously guided the national team to the 2021 COSAFA Cup title under difficult circumstances, leading the side to victory without conceding a single goal. His return brings both familiarity and proven success to the South African camp.

SAFA emphasized his tactical versatility and regional expertise. “Ramoreboli brings a valuable combination of international experience, tactical flexibility, regional knowledge and a proven ability to maximise the potential of players and teams,” the association noted. His background in CAF Champions League and AFCON competitions adds further depth to the technical team.

SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan welcomed the appointment warmly. “We are delighted to welcome Morena Ramoreboli back into the Bafana Bafana environment. He has earned this opportunity through his achievements and his consistent growth as a coach over many years,” Jordaan said.

He continued: “Morena knows South African football, understands African football and has demonstrated that he can build competitive teams, develop players and deliver results in challenging circumstances. His experience in Botswana has added another important dimension to his coaching career. We believe his qualities will complement those of Coach Pitso Mosimane and strengthen the Bafana Bafana technical team as we begin the journey towards the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.”

Ramoreboli leaves Botswana football with a decorated record. At club level, he guided Jwaneng Galaxy to two Botswana Premier League titles and twice reached the CAF Champions League group stage. His teams claimed notable victories against Orlando Pirates and Wydad AC, showcasing his ability to compete against continental giants.

His crowning achievement with Botswana came during the 2024 AFCON qualifiers. Serving initially as interim coach, he led The Zebras to qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time since 2012. “That campaign was historic for Botswana football, and Ramoreboli’s leadership was central to that success,” BFA officials reflected.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Ramoreboli’s blend of experience, tactical acumen, and regional knowledge is expected to bolster Bafana Bafana’s ambitions. With Pitso Mosimane at the helm and Ramoreboli by his side, South Africa’s technical team looks well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers and beyond.