Soccer
Marumo Gallants appoint Mohafe as new head coach─── MORGAN PIEK 09:26 Mon, 22 Jun 2026
The Bloemfontein-based Premier Soccer League club, Marumo Gallants, will begin the 2026/27 domestic season under new leadership following the appointment of Phuti Mohafe as head coach.
The club confirmed Mohafe’s arrival on Sunday after a turbulent 2025/26 campaign in which Gallants narrowly avoided relegation for a second consecutive season.
Mohafe joins Gallants from Polokwane City, where he guided Rise and Shine to an impressive seventh-place finish in the league and secured qualification for the season-opening MTN8 cup competition.
He replaces Jamil Benouahi, whose brief stint at the club failed to make any meaningful impact. Benouahi was only in the dugout for one match, a 3-0 defeat to the relegated Magesi FC. His only other appearance at a Gallants fixture came from the stands during the return Bloemfontein derby against city rivals Siwelele FC.
Former Gallants defender Trevor Mathiane stepped in as interim coach to see out the season and played a crucial role in the club’s survival. Under his guidance, Gallants put together a remarkable seven-match unbeaten run that ultimately secured their top-flight status.
Gallants began the season under the guidance of young French coach Alexandre Lafitte, who initially enjoyed considerable success. The 28-year-old led the club to the final of the Carling Knockout Cup, where they eventually lost to newly crowned PSL champions Orlando Pirates.
Jamil Benouahi. Photo: X
However, the second half of the campaign proved far more challenging. A string of disappointing results saw Gallants slide down the table, and the club eventually parted ways with Laffitte as relegation concerns intensified.
Benouahi was brought in as his replacement on a short-term deal intended to steer the club through the remainder of the season. However, his tenure never truly got off the ground and ended almost as quickly as it began.
With survival secured, Gallants have now opted for a fresh start under Mohafe as they look to build a more stable and competitive side ahead of the new campaign.
In a statement, the club welcomed the experienced coach to Bloemfontein.
“Marumo Gallants F.C. is pleased to announce the appointment of Phuti Mohafe as the Club’s new Head Coach.
“Mohafe joins Marumo Gallants from Polokwane City F.C., where he served as Head Coach and played a significant role in the club’s recent progress and competitive performances in the Premier Soccer League.
“He is widely respected within South African football circles and brings a wealth of coaching experience, strong leadership qualities, and an in-depth understanding of the local football landscape.
Alexandre Lafitte and Washington Arubi. Photo: X
“The Club believes that Mohafe’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Marumo Gallants as the team continues to strengthen its ambitions both on and off the field.
“His experience within the South African football environment and proven ability to work effectively with players at all levels make him well-positioned to lead the Club into the future.
“Mohafe will be supported by the Club’s management to ensure a smooth transition within the squad as preparations continue for the upcoming season.”
A dejected Alexandre Lafitte following the Bloemfontein derby defeat to Siwelele FC. Photo: Morgan Piek
“The Club would like to welcome Phuti Mohafe to the Marumo Gallants family and wish him every success in his new role.”
Meanwhile, it is also understood former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Jacob Mokhasi has left Gallants and is expected to join Golden Arrows as the club’s new goalkeeping coach.
After two seasons spent battling relegation, Gallants supporters will be hoping Mohafe can bring stability, direction, and renewed optimism as the club prepares for another demanding PSL campaign.
