Stellenbosch FC booked their place in the CAF Confederation Cup group
stages with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Angola’s 15 de Agosto at the
Athlone Stadium on Sunday. After a goalless first leg, the win secured a
4-1 aggregate triumph and marked a historic continental achievement for
the club.
Penalty Provides Platform
With the tie finely balanced, Stellenbosch started brightly and were
rewarded in the 20th minute. A foul on Lehlohonolo Mojela in the box
resulted in a penalty, which Thato Khiba calmly converted to give the
hosts a crucial lead.
Second-Half Blitz Seals the Tie
Steve Barker’s side carried their momentum into the second half,
effectively killing the contest with two quick goals. Sanele Barns doubled
the advantage with a precise first-time finish in the 55th minute, before
Andre de Jong added a third just after the hour mark, showcasing composure
to turn and slot home.
Consolation Denied as Butsaka Adds Gloss
The visitors managed to grab a consolation goal with ten minutes
remaining, denying Stellenbosch a clean sheet. However, substitute Chumani
Butsaka had the final say, restoring the three-goal margin with a lovely
strike in the 88th minute to cap off a dominant team performance and a
successful qualification campaign.
Line-Ups
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.
