Stellenbosch FC booked their ticket to the CAF Confederation Cup group
stages with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Angola’s 15 de Agosto at a buzzing
Athlone Stadium on Sunday, sealing a 4-1 aggregate triumph.
After a tense goalless draw in the first leg, Steve Barker’s men started
with intensity and were rewarded in the 20th minute when a foul on
Lehlohonolo Mojela resulted in a penalty. Thato Khiba made no mistake from
the spot, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to break the deadlock.
The Maroons continued to dominate, with their defense, marshaled by Ismael
Toure, effectively neutralizing any threat from the visitors. The pressure
told ten minutes after the restart when Sanele Barns doubled the lead with a
superb first-time finish into the far corner.
The tie was put beyond doubt just after the hour mark, as André de Jong
showcased his skill with a neat turn in the box before slotting home coolly
to make it 3-0.
15 de Agosto managed a late consolation goal to deny Stellenbosch a clean
sheet, but the home side had the final say. Substitute Chumani Butsaka
capped off a brilliant team performance with a lovely strike in the 88th
minute, ensuring a celebratory atmosphere at the final whistle.
The victory marks a significant continental milestone for Stellenbosch FC as
they advance to the group stages.
Lineups:
Stellenbosch: Masuluke, Mokobodi, Moloisane, Stanic, Manafov (Mdaka 70′),
Mthiyane (Jabaar 70′), Khiba (Butsaka 70′), Barns, De Jong, Phili, Mojela.
Subs: Ah Shene, Mdaka, Mcaba, Jabaar, Butsaka, Lekoloane, Titus, Cupido.
