Stellenbosch exit CAF Confederation Cup but domestic success is still up for grabs

Another Stellenbosch fairytale run in the CAF Confederation Cup this season was what the club, their supporters, and neutrals had been rooting for. But alas, it wasn’t to be – the Winelands-based side was knocked out of the group stage on Sunday with a game to spare.

Stellenbosch lost 3–0 to Otoho d’Oyo in the penultimate group-stage fixture in Brazzaville, confirming that they will finish in the bottom two of Group C, even if they beat Singida Black Stars in their final match at home on Sunday.

That crushing defeat stung. Stellies had hoped to build on their semi-final finish in the competition last season – a historic run achieved on their first attempt.

However, with recent coaching changes and other challenges, including the departure of Steve Barker (replaced by Gavin Hunt) and the death of Jeandre Gaffoor, the team was expected to go through a transition phase.

Despite still trying to integrate everyone into his approach and methodology, Hunt has shown a clear appetite for winning matches. They claimed victories in their most recent games in both the Betway Premiership and the Nedbank Cup last 32, defeating Sekhukhune United and Kaizer Chiefs respectively.

Those wins have boosted their chances not only of pushing for another top-three finish but also of competing for silverware and another continental berth, as finishing third in the league or winning the Nedbank Cup would secure a return to Africa.

Hunt appears to have full support from the club in his plans. During the summer transfer window, he brought in more than five new faces, including Tshegofatso Mabasa, Mosa Lebusa, Wade Joose, Kobamelo Kodisang, and Asekho Tiwani.

The quintet arrived with notable experience and successes from their previous teams, and Hunt will aim to harness that if Stellenbosch are to remain competitive and challenge for the Nedbank Cup by season’s end.

Hunt has faced criticism in recent years, with some suggesting he is past his sell-by date. But the 61-year-old knows that securing the team’s status and competing for the Nedbank Cup remain vital – both for the club’s aspirations and to restore his own reputation.

The upcoming away clash against Singida Black Stars, which carries no immediate consequence, presents a perfect opportunity for the team to fine-tune combinations and build camaraderie before returning fully to domestic matters for the remainder of the season.

Having recently celebrated 30 years in coaching, Hunt knows that the second half of the season is crucial. Teams are focused on chasing honours, which is why Stellies cannot afford to be caught off guard or underperform in any match.