Defence dynamo Turan Manafov in the fray for Stellenbosch FC as they eye MTN8 glory
Stellenbosch FC has strengthened its squad with the signing of defender Turan Manafov from Azerbaijan, just in time for the MTN8 final, where his experience could prove crucial.
Turan Manafov Stellenbosch FC has signed former Azerbaijan youth international, Turan Manafov, who arrived in South Africa after a spell in his homeland with Kapaz FC. Picture: Stellenbosch FC'
Image: Picture: Stellenbosch FC'
Stellenbosch FC has made a significant addition to its squad ahead of the crucial MTN8 final, with the signing of Azerbaijani defender Turan Manafov.
The former Azerbaijan youth international has joined the club on a free transfer from Kapaz PFK, an Azerbaijani football club competing in the Premier League.
Manafov, a 27-year-old left-back, expressed his excitement about this new chapter in his career. "I am very happy to join Stellenbosch FC," he said. "The club’s ideas and principles appealed to me, and I am excited to be with a team that is competing at the highest levels."
He further noted the faster pace of South African football compared to Azerbaijan, saying he looked forward to testing himself in a league known for producing stars and competing in continental tournaments.
As Manafov dons the No. 2 jersey, he is set to make his debut in the highly anticipated MTN8 final against the Orlando Pirates on Saturday at Mbombela Stadium.
His arrival is a strategic move aimed at strengthening Stellenbosch's defence, especially after the departure of Fawaaz Basadien. Manafov’s international experience will be invaluable in the upcoming match against the Pirates, who have a roster of national team players returning from international duty for FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
While Pirates are missing eight key players, such as Relebohile Mofokeng and Deon Hotto, who were with their national teams, Stellenbosch has only Thabo Moloisane involved with Bafana Bafana. Coach Steve Barker acknowledges that this might provide a slight edge for Stellies, given that they can prepare without midweek interruptions.
"They have a team of national team players, which demonstrates the quality. At the same time, what’s in our favour and advantage is we only had Thabo (Moloisane] there," Barker remarked, highlighting the contrasting circumstances as both teams gear up for this monumental fixture.
With Manafov's addition, Stellenbosch FC looks to harness its full potential and seize the opportunity presented by the MTN8 final, as the team aims to solidify its position in South African football.