Stellenbosch FC has been nominated for the prestigious CAF Men’s Club of the Year award, marking a significant achievement for South African football.
Only two South African clubs have ever won this award. In 2016, it was Mamelodi Sundowns, and in 2001, Kaizer Chiefs won the prize.
This announcement, made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Wednesday afternoon, highlights the club’s impressive journey during its debut season in the CAF Confederation Cup last year.
Having reached the semi-finals in their inaugural appearance, Stellenbosch FC’s remarkable ascent within the African football scene has captured the attention of fans and pundits alike.
The club’s inspirational run saw them overcome formidable opponents, including Nsingizini Hotspurs, AS Vita, Stade Malien, Lunda Sul, and the reigning champions Zamalek. They only narrowly fell to eventual runners-up Simba SC in the last four.
A panel of experts from CAF, including members of the Technical Committee, experienced coaches, legendary footballers, and select media representatives, meticulously selected the nominees based on their performance between 6 January and 15 October 2025.
This year, Stellenbosch FC finds itself in esteemed company, facing off against some of Africa’s most renowned clubs such as CR Belouizdad, CS Constantine, ASEC Mimosas, Pyramids FC, RS Berkane, Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Al Hilal, and Simba SC.
Rob Benadie, the club’s CEO, expressed immense pride in the nomination, stating, “For a club founded just nine years ago in the second tier of South African football, to now be competing successfully at continental level and shortlisted for CAF Club of the Year makes us immensely proud.”
He further praised the other nominees, particularly praising the South African clubs that share the spotlight: “Three nominations from South Africa provide further proof of the strength of our domestic Premiership.”
Stellenbosch FC is not resting on its laurels. The club has begun its season in the CAF Confederation Cup for 2025-26, making a solid start with a 0-0 draw against Equatorial Guinea’s 15 de Agosto de Akonibe in the 2nd Preliminary Round 1st Leg.
In another exciting development, former Stellenbosch defender Tylon Smith has received a nomination for the CAF Young Player of the Year award. Smith showcased his talents during South Africa’s victorious CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations campaign earlier this year, where he was not only an outstanding performer but also took home the Player of the Tournament accolade.
Since then, he has transitioned from the club’s DStv Diski Challenge structure to sign with English Championship side Queens Park Rangers, where he has recently made his senior debut.
This double nomination is a testament to Stellenbosch FC’s commitment to nurturing talent and competing fiercely at a continental level.
