Stellenbosch FC’s journey in the CAF Confederation Cup came to a crushing halt on Sunday making it all the more critical for Kaizer Chiefs to uphold Mzansi’s pride on the continental stage.
Stellenbosch suffered a 3-0 defeat against AS Otohô, the formidable Republic of Congo outfit, at the Stade Alphonse Massemba-Débat in Brazzaville. Coming off the back of a lacklustre 2-0 home loss to Algerian side CR Belouizdad last week, the result effectively ended Stellies’ hopes of replicating last season’s impressive semi-final run.
With their progression hopes extinguished, Barker’s men will conclude their campaign next week at the Danie Craven Stadium against Tanzanian league leaders Singida Black Stars.
Both teams currently sit on four points after five matches at the bottom of Group C, playing only for pride in their final encounter.
Meanwhile, hope has been reignited among South African supporters as Kaizer Chiefs continue their surge towards the quarter-finals.
The Glamour Boys signalled their intent with a thrilling 2-1 victory against Egyptian giants Al Masry at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, propelling them to the summit of Group D with 10 points.
This triumph marks Chiefs’ third successive win in Africa, representing an inspiring turnaround following their shock exit from the Nedbank Cup. While they lead the pack, the race remains tightly contested; Zamalek trails them on eight points, while Al Masry sits third on seven points.
Co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef has acknowledged the team’s daunting schedule, noting that the squad has had little time to breathe, having played six matches across three competitions in just three weeks since domestic football resumed after the Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite these hurdles, Amakhosi are well poised to secure their knockout spot when they travel to Cairo next weekend.
