The Transcending Journey of African Football Coaches from Local Fields to Europe's Grandest Stages - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

The Transcending Journey of African Football Coaches from Local Fields to Europe’s Grandest Stages

4 mins read
african football uefa coaching licenses

African football coaches like Rhulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane have the potential to succeed in Europe with UEFA coaching licenses, according to coach Hugo Broos. The scarcity of these licenses among African coaches is the primary obstacle hindering their rise, but Broos envisions Mokwena and other African coaches with these licenses as pioneers, paving the way for massive African talent inflows into European coaching. African coaches like Mokwena and Mosimane have demonstrated their skills, zeal, and knowledge needed to excel at the pinnacle of the sport, and the remaining task is to bridge the gap between this potential and the structural prerequisites of European football.

Can African Football Coaches Succeed in Europe?

Yes, with the acquisition of UEFA coaching licenses, African coaches like Rhulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane have the potential to thrive in Europe. The scarcity of these licenses among African coaches is the primary obstacle hindering their rise, according to Hugo Broos, the coach of Bafana Bafana. However, he envisions Mokwena and other African coaches with these licenses as pioneers, paving the way for massive African talent inflows into European coaching.

The path that leads from Africa’s local football fields to the magnificent stadiums of Europe often appears daunting, a seemingly unreachable dream for many football commanders hailing from Africa. However, Hugo Broos, the acclaimed coach of Bafana Bafana, is convinced that this vision is merely delayed due to technicality, and not because of any prejudice or deficit of skill.

Obstacles on the Path to Success

In a recent conversation on the PrimeSportsWithMahlatse YouTube channel, the esteemed coach offered a profound view of the coaching panorama in Africa. Broos accentuated the scarcity of UEFA coaching licenses among African coaches as the principal hurdle that hinders their rise and triumph in Europe. His perspective draws attention towards the systemic constraints that could be thwarting African talent, instead of an absence of aptitude or understanding of the sport.

Celebrating African Talent: Rhulani Mokwena

Broos had nothing but praise for Rhulani Mokwena, a South African coach whom he considers as a true reflection of the potential and fervor of African coaching prodigies. He portrayed Mokwena as a football fanatic, always hungry to learn and aspire in his chosen realm. “Totally engrossed in football,” as Broos succinctly expressed, Mokwena is perceived as a person who could flourish in Europe, given the chance.

Broos strongly encourages Mokwena and his fellow African coaches to aim for UEFA Pro Licenses as their gateway to Europe. He visualizes Mokwena, with his dedication to continuous learning and development, as a probable pioneer for African coaches. If Mokwena and others can attain these licenses, they could pave the way for a massive inflow of African talent into the European coaching sphere.

The Rising Star: Pitso Mosimane

Pitso Mosimane, another coach who has been the focus of discussions regarding African representation in Europe, is currently equipped with a CAF Pro License. This license is designed to be on par with a UEFA Pro License. Mosimane is well-acquainted with the rumors of job propositions circulating around him. Despite his assertion that European clubs exhibit a hesitance towards employing African coaches, Broos disputes this claim. He contends that the predicament is not rooted in racial or national biases but lies in the acquisition of the right license.

Mosimane might eventually set foot in Europe, with a plethora of opportunities awaiting him. And as Broos emphasizes, the key to unlocking this door is the licenses, the necessary paperwork that could mark the onset of a new epoch for African coaching talent in Europe.

Shifting Narrative and Bridging the Gap

The perspectives shared by Hugo Broos are instrumental in altering the discourse around African representation in European football. The issue at hand is not about the ability or talent. African coaches, as exemplified by Mokwena and Mosimane, have demonstrated that they possess the requisite skills, zeal, and knowledge needed to excel at the pinnacle of the sport. The remaining task is to bridge the gap between this potential and the structural prerequisites of European football, a challenge that can be overcome with the procurement of UEFA coaching licenses.

Testament to Progress and Resilience

As African coaches relentlessly strive to stretch limits and demolish boundaries, they personify the spirit of advancement and tenacity. They stand as a testament to their potential and a representation of the beauty, diversity, and talent that football unites. They continue to prove that with the right training and qualifications, they can not only match the performance of European coaches but also add a unique flair that stems from their rich, diverse backgrounds.

How can African coaches succeed in Europe?

African coaches can succeed in Europe by acquiring UEFA coaching licenses, as these licenses are recognized as prerequisites for coaching in European football. With the right training and qualifications, African coaches like Rhulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane have the potential to thrive in Europe and add a unique flair that stems from their rich, diverse backgrounds.

What is hindering the rise of African coaches in Europe?

The scarcity of UEFA coaching licenses among African coaches is the primary obstacle hindering their rise, according to Hugo Broos, the coach of Bafana Bafana. He emphasizes that this predicament is not rooted in racial or national biases but lies in the acquisition of the right license.

Who are some African coaches with the potential to succeed in Europe?

Rhulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane are two African coaches who have demonstrated their skills, zeal, and knowledge needed to excel at the pinnacle of the sport. Hugo Broos considers Mokwena and other African coaches with UEFA coaching licenses as pioneers, paving the way for massive African talent inflows into European coaching.

What licenses do African coaches need to coach in Europe?

UEFA coaching licenses are recognized as prerequisites for coaching in European football. African coaches need to acquire these licenses to have a chance to coach in Europe and pave the way for massive African talent inflows into European coaching.

What is the key to unlocking the door for African coaching talent in Europe?

According to Hugo Broos, the key to unlocking the door for African coaching talent in Europe is the procurement of UEFA coaching licenses. African coaches like Rhulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane can pave the way for a massive inflow of African talent into the European coaching sphere if they can attain these licenses.

What is the main issue with African representation in European football?

The main issue with African representation in European football is not about the ability or talent. African coaches, as exemplified by Mokwena and Mosimane, have demonstrated that they possess the requisite skills, zeal, and knowledge needed to excel at the pinnacle of the sport. The remaining task is to bridge the gap between this potential and the structural prerequisites of European football, a challenge that can be overcome with the procurement of UEFA coaching licenses.

Previous Story

The Fight for Existence: South African Post Office and its Employee Base

Next Story

Gearing up for AFCON: Bafana Bafana Ready to Take on Mali

Latest from Blog

Taj Cape Town: Where Timeless Grandeur Meets Modern Indulgence

Taj Cape Town is a stunning hotel where oldworld charm meets modern luxury. Housed in a beautiful Edwardian building, it invites guests to step into Cape Town’s rich history while enjoying top comforts, delicious food, and warm, personal service. From waking up to views of Table Mountain to relaxing with awardwinning spa treatments and savoring exquisite meals, every moment feels special. The hotel also connects visitors deeply to the vibrant culture and spirit of the city, making each stay a unique and memorable adventure.

Meeting the IT3(d) Deadline: A New Era of Accountability for South African NPOs

South African nonprofits face a big deadline between April 15 and May 31, 2025, to submit important tax reports called IT3(d). This report keeps their ability to give donors taxdeductible receipts, which helps raise money and build trust. Missing the deadline can cause fines and loss of this key status, hurting their work and the communities they serve. Many groups are working hard, using new tech and teamwork to meet the deadline and stay strong. This yearly challenge pushes nonprofits to be more professional and transparent, securing their future.

Shores of Safety: How the NSRI’s Beach Camera Network is Changing Coastal Rescue

The NSRI’s Beach Safety Camera Network is making South Africa’s beaches safer by watching six risky spots with live video and trained watchers. These cameras spot trouble fast, helping rescuers jump into action before things get worse. The system respects people’s privacy and brings communities together to protect beachgoers. Thanks to this smart mix of technology and teamwork, more lives are being saved along the beautiful but sometimes dangerous coast.

Clouds Above the Cape: South Africa’s Teen Vaping Crisis

Teen vaping is growing fast in South Africa, with many young people using flavored nicotine vapes that are easy to find and heavily advertised. A big study found that nearly one in six teens vape regularly, and many show signs of addiction, worrying health experts. Vaping has become part of teen life at schools and social spots, fueled by cool images online and wrong ideas that it’s safe. Now, South Africa faces a crucial moment to pass strong laws and teach kids the truth before this habit takes deeper hold. Without action, many teens risk lifelong health problems hidden behind the clouds of sweet vapor.

Reimagining the Strand Street Quarry: Cape Town’s Next Chapter

The Strand Street Quarry in Cape Town is set to transform from a quiet, forgotten space into a lively community hub full of sports, culture, and fun. This special place, rich with history and surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods, will become a spot where people can play, celebrate, work, and connect. The city is listening closely to its residents to make sure the new space respects the past while welcoming the future. Together, Cape Town hopes to turn the old quarry into a bright, shared treasure for everyone.