Magesi scrape a draw against depleted Stellenbosch

Langelihle Phili of Stellenbosch FC is challenged by Lehlohonolo Mtshali of Magesi FC during the Betway Premiership 2025/26 game between Stellenbosch FC and Magesi FC at Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch on 18 February 2026 © Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

 The visitors made a lively start, with Lehlohonolo Mtshali forcing Sage Stephens into a save from a curling effort aimed at the top left corner.

Both teams threatened after that without making clear chances before Magesi striker Wonderboy Makhubu’s 32rd-minute shot forced Stephens into an important save.

The two sides had half chances before the hour mark but could not convert until Stellies forward Langelihle Phili broke the deadlock in the 35th minute to take a 1-0.

READ: The Sky Is Not The Limit: “If people are hoping for Pirates to drop the ball against Mamelodi Sundowns, they don’t know what they are wishing” – Pundit rallies table topping Bucs ahead of showdown with Downs

However, Dikwena tsa Meetsi responded promptly with Samuel Darpoh nodding in a Edmore Chirambadare header to level proceedings before half time.

The second half proved to be a cagey encounter with both sides resorting to speculative efforts from long range or awkward angles until Wonderboy Makhubu was sent off in the 72nd minute for violent conduct.

Both teams could not breach the opposition defence and have to settle for a point each which leaves Stellenbosch in 13th position while Magesi remain rooted at the bottom of the 16-team Betway Premiership table.