By Michael Madyira
Stellenbosch FC defied a numerical disadvantage to hold AS Vita Club to a 1-1 draw at Stade des Martyrs de la Pentecôte, securing a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage on Sunday.
Having already done themselves a huge favour by leading 2-0 from the first leg, the Cape Winelands side proceeded to the mini-league phase with a 3-1 aggregate scoreline.
On Sunday, Lehlohonolo Mojela put Stellenbosch ahead in the 71st minute, but the home side levelled the score from the penalty spot in stoppage time. However, that was not enough to turn the tie around.
AS Vita could not capitalise on playing with an extra man for 45 minutes after Stellenbosch defender Ismael Touré was red-carded on the stroke of halftime.
It was a remarkable achievement by Steve Barker’s men, who did not falter in the 32 degrees Celsius heat of the afternoon in Kinshasa.
The Maroons are making their maiden campaign in this continental competition and have reached the group stage at the first attempt.
Barker did not change the team he started with when they hosted AS Vita in the first leg, and it paid off once again.
From the start, the Winelands outfit were a constant threat and almost went ahead 13 minutes into the contest, but Mojela had a goal disallowed for offside.
Goalkeeper Sage Stephens was solid, producing brilliant saves, especially in the first half, while Thabo Moloisane was equally firm at the back.
Mojela then volleyed past Farid Ouedraogo to give the visitors the lead, leaving Vita with a mountain to climb in their comeback bid.
Inside the eight minutes of additional time, Vita managed to earn a penalty and pulled a goal back for a consolation.
Pictured above: Stellenbosch FC forward Lehlohonolo Mojela celebrates his goal against AS Vita Club.
Image source: Stellenbosch FC
