New South African Football Association President Kirsten Nematandani has announced that Bafana Bafana coach Joel Santana has resigned from his position with immediate effect.

Santana stepped down after a string of poor results with the national team, having taking over the hotseat from countryman Carlos Parreira in mid-2008.

It said a detailed discussion was held with the Brazilian-born trainer about his performance where it was decided he would resign.

South African Football Association Deputy President Shoes Mazibuko said Santana tried his best.

"In the bigger picture and the interest of the country, he realised while he was doing his best, his best was not good enough," said Mazibuko on Monday.

There is no word yet on who will fill his role.

Julio Leal and Pitso Mosimane will take over as caretaker coaches in the meantime.

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