The South African Football Association (SAFA) has appointed Joel Natalino Santana as Head Coach of the Senior Men's National Team, Bafana Bafana.

This follows a recommendation by Carlos Alberto Parreira to SAFA and the subsequent acceptance of the job offer by Coach Santana.

SAFA CEO Raymond Hack will leave for Brazil this weekend to finalise the contract and other legal requirements including the application of the South African Work Permit.

The new Bafana coach is expected in the country on the 9th of May.

Bafana Bafana's Technical Advisor, Carlos Alberto Parreira, says he has recommended a special and experienced coach in Santana.

“Natalino is a specialist in winning championships, he has won many championships with big clubs in Brazil and has coached great Brazilian players like Romario, Bebeto and Juhnino just to name a few.

I believe he will provide the continuity that is so crucial in preparing the Team, especially with Jairo Leal and Pitso Mosimane remaining to assist,” says Parreira.

Coach Santana was born on 25 December 1948 and considers his birthday very special. “I'm blessed in many ways and I attribute my achievements to the fact that I was born on Christmas Day."

"Taking over the National Team of South Africa, the host country for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, is one such blessing,” says Santana.

“Carlos is one of the most respected coaches in the world, and I'm determined to carry out the mandate of continuing the good work that has been done by him and his Technical Team.

I'm confident about the task ahead of me and I believe my experience in working with many top clubs will assist in preparing the Team for the big challenge ahead.”added Santana.

Read more excellent information on the new Coach of South Africa's National Team.