South African football is buzzing with anticipation, and for good reason. From Bafana Bafana’s long-awaited return to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) to the rise of local talents like Vuyo Letlapa, the beautiful game is thriving across Mzansi. Throw in a major coaching shake-up at Orlando Pirates, and it’s clear that South African football is entering a new era of excitement and opportunity.

Bafana Bafana back in CHAN after 12 years

Bafana Bafana are back in CHAN for the first time in 12 years after a nail-biting 2-0 victory against Malawi in Pretoria, on Sunday. The triumph secured a 2-1 aggregate win after Malawi outperformed South Africa in their first qualifying match on 3 May. This victory earns South Africa’s spot in the 2025 tournament set to take place in East Africa.

The heroes of the day were Victor Letsoalo and captain Neo Maema, both former Bloemfontein Celtic stars. Letsoalo opened the scoring with a powerful volley in the 11th minute, while Maema sealed the victory in the 87th, pouncing on a loose ball in the box. Stand-in coach Molefi Ntseki, who took the reins for the qualifiers, was visibly emotional after the game.“My voice might not be what I’d like it to be; I think it’s from all the celebrating we’ve been doing since qualifying for Chan after 12 long years,” Ntseki said. He praised the team for their resilience after a 1-0 loss in the first leg, emphasising the unity and tactical discipline shown in Pretoria. “The technical plan was clear, and every player on the pitch applied themselves fully. We’re grateful to the players, the entire technical team, and to Safa for the support,” he added.

The 2025 CHAN tournament will be hosted in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda this August, marking a significant return for South Africa to the competition reserved exclusively for home-based players.

Orlando Pirates part ways with coach Jose Riveiro

Orlando Pirates have confirmed that head coach Jose Riveiro will step down after their clash with Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium this evening. The Spaniard, who led Pirates to five trophies since his arrival in 2022, requested an early release from his contract, originally set to run until June 2025.

Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza explained that Riveiro’s request was handled with sensitivity, given its timing amidst crucial fixtures. “Jose approached us a few weeks ago with a request to be released from his contract ahead of schedule, having signed with a new club,” Khoza said. The new club is rumoured to be Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

Assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi will take the reins on an interim basis, supported by Head Performance Analyst Rayaan Jacobs. Pirates fans are expected to fill Orlando Stadium for Riveiro’s swansong as they face Golden Arrows in what promises to be an emotional farewell.

Riveiro expressed his gratitude to the club and its supporters, saying, “I want to express my sincere appreciation to Orlando Pirates for allowing me the opportunity to leave before the end of my contract. As someone who has never found goodbyes easy, this moment is particularly emotional for me.”

Vuyo Letlapa’s big European move?

Sekhukhune United’s rising star Vuyo Letlapa is on the verge of a major career leap, with French Ligue 1 side Olympique Gymnaste Club de Nice reportedly closing in on a deal reportedly worth R20 million. The 21-year-old left-back has been heavily linked with both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, but the French club seems to have outmanoeuvred the Soweto giants in the race for his signature.

According to Sunday World, the deal, which includes a 30% sell-on clause (locking in any benefit for future transfers), is being handled by the same agent who secured Glody Lilepo’s move to Kaizer Chiefs earlier this year. 

Letlapa’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. After joining Sekhukhune United from Jomo Cosmos at the start of the season, he quickly established himself as a key player, earning a call-up to Bafana Bafana for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. His performances have not only impressed national team coaches Hugo Broos and Helman Mkhalele but also put him on the radar of European scouts.

If the move materialises, it would not only mark a personal triumph for Letlapa but also signify another instance where South African talent is poached by wealthier European clubs, leaving local giants Pirates and Chiefs to rue another missed opportunity. For now, local fans wait with bated breath to see if Letlapa will indeed be flying the South African flag in Ligue 1 soon.

From Bafana’s triumphant return to CHAN to big-money transfers and coaching changes at home, it’s clear Mzansi football is one to watch. 

Emma@explain.co.za |  + posts

Emma is a freshly graduated Journalist from Stellenbosch University, who also holds an Honours in history. She joined the explain team, eager to provide thorough and truthful information and connect with her generation.