Stellenbosch FC are preparing to host Richards Bay in a highly anticipated Betway Premiership encounter later this evening.
With Stellenbosch competing across multiple fronts and Richards Bay scrapping for survival, this clash could prove pivotal in their campaigns.
Form Guide
After a tough defeat to Kaizer Chiefs, Stellenbosch have rebounded with back to back victories across all competitions and will be looking to make it three in a row. The Western Cape outfit have advanced to the knockout round of the CAF Confederation Cup, but do need to make up ground in the Betway Premiership. Stellies come into this round of action in 7th place with 23 points from 15 games (6 wins, 5 draws, 4 losses).
Read: Stellenbosch draw Egyptian giants in Quarter-Final
On the other hand, Richards Bay, under the guidance of Ronnie Gabriel and Papi Zothwane since December 2024, have flickered with promise. Despite crashing out of the Nedbank Cup, they beat Marumo Gallants and Polokwane City respectively. Gabriel has said his squad are “finding rhythm” and the Natal Rich Boyz come into this clash in 13th place with 16 points from 17 games (4 wins, 4 draws, 9 losses).
Player Spotlight
Ashley Cupido was the hero for Stellenbosch FC as he came off the bench to score a sensational brace, leading his team to a dramatic 3-2 victory over TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium last time out.
After recovering from a long term injury, Cupido was introduced with fifteen minutes of regular time left to play and his impact was immediate. With the game tied 1-1, the 83rd minute saw Cupido find the back of the net, equalizing for Stellenbosch with a clinical strike. The match seemed destined for a draw, but Cupido had other plans. In the dying moments of stoppage time, he completed his brace with a stunning finish, scoring the decisive goal that secured all three points for his side.
His heroics not only handed Stellenbosch a much-needed win on the road but also ensured they took home a valuable three points in what was a thrilling encounter. The win sees them continue their push up the league table and I think the forward will fancy his chances against Richards Bay this evening!
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 19:30 on Friday, 21 February and will be carried live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary. The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport channel 202 and can also be streamed on Showmax.
Danie Craven Stadium
The 16 000 seater stadium will host the clash between Stellenbosch and Richards Bay. Located in Stellenbosch, the stadium is a multi-purpose venue primarily used for rugby and football matches.
It is part of Stellenbosch University’s sports facilities and is named after Danie Craven, a renowned South African rugby administrator and former Springbok scrum-half.
Since 2020, Danie Craven Stadium has served as the home ground for Stellenbosch FC, one of South Africa’s sixteen topflight clubs which competes in the Betway Premiership.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Stellenbosch 8/10 | Draw 23/10 | Richards Bay 42/10
With the away side making up ground in the topflight, I think the play is Richards Bay on the double chance and BTTS (Yes) at 28/10!