By Michael Madyira
Stellenbosch FC will make their first appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup when they face Nsingizini Hotspurs from Eswatini at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday.
This match is the first leg of the preliminary round.
The team’s journey to continental football began after they finished third in the PSL last season.
Head coach Steve Barker spoke about the team’s excitement on Stellenbosch’s YouTube channel: “Playing on the continent has always been a dream for us, and that day has finally come.
“There’s a lot of buzz around the club, and we’re looking forward to our first game in Africa.”
Stellenbosch will face this challenge without two key players: forward Iqraam Rayners, who joined Mamelodi Sundowns, and former captain Deano van Rooyen, who is now with Orlando Pirates.
Interestingly, even though the match is being played in South Africa, Stellenbosch will technically be the away team.
Nsingizini Hotspurs are playing their home games in South Africa because Eswatini lacks CAF-approved facilities.
The second leg will also take place at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with Stellenbosch as the home team.
Barker mentioned the familiarity with the venue, saying: “It’s good that we know the Moses Mabhida Stadium and Durban well, but we must remember that our opponents have worked just as hard to be here.
“They’re ambitious and have shown they’re serious by preparing in South Africa.”
Like Stellenbosch, Nsingizini Hotspurs are also making their debut in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Pictured above: Stellenbosch FC players at training in Durban preparing for Nsingizini Hotspurs.
Source: Stellenbosch FC
