Stellenbosch FC are gearing up to host Sekhukhune United in a high-stakes first leg of the MTN8 Cup semifinals at Danie Craven Stadium on Saturday.
As last season’s runners-up, Stellies are eager to secure a second straight final berth and will count on their passionate home crowd to deliver an edge in this two-legged battle.
Meanwhile, Sekhukhune are making their maiden appearance at this stage of the competition and have shown remarkable resilience, aiming to snatch a vital away result that could propel them toward uncharted glory.
Current Form
Stellenbosch have stumbled early in the Betway Premiership, remaining winless in their opening two league outings after a 1-1 draw with Magesi FC midweek and a prior defeat to Kaizer Chiefs on August 10. However, they kicked off the season with a thrilling 3-2 victory over AmaZulu in the MTN8 quarterfinals on August 3, highlighting their knack for rising in cup ties.
Sekhukhune, in contrast, have surged into form with three consecutive wins across competitions, including a dramatic 3-2 comeback against TS Galaxy in the MTN8 quarters on August 2, where they overturned a two-goal deficit, and subsequent league triumphs, such as over Orlando Pirates.
This hot streak has Babina Noko brimming with confidence, though their coach has cautioned about sloppy ball retention in build-up play.
Team News
Stellenbosch will miss young defender Siviwe Nkwali, who is completing a two-match ban following a red card against Kaizer Chiefs, but the squad appears otherwise injury-free.
For Sekhukhune, there are no suspensions, but captain Linda Mntambo’s midweek substitution due to injury raises concerns about his availability, potentially disrupting their midfield dynamism.
What Was Said
Stellenbosch head coach Steve Barker emphasized their league priorities but underlined the push for points amid cup distractions. “The league is our bread and butter, and we want to keep challenging at the top end and qualifying for African football,” Barker said. “We played the game to win (against Magesi FC), and that was the main objective. We didn’t really have an eye on the Saturday game against Sekhukhune United. First prize, especially after losing to [Kaizer] Chiefs, was to try to get three points.”
Sekhukhune boss Eric Tinkler acknowledged the daunting challenge ahead, highlighting his side’s historical struggles against Stellies. “Obviously, this semi-final against Stellenbosch is a massive game; they have been very good over the past two seasons,” Tinkler said. “My personal record as a coach against them is not brilliant, and hopefully we can go there and not only change my fortune but obviously also Sekhukhune’s fortunes in terms of trying to reach the MTN8 final. It’s not going to be easy, a very difficult team to play, especially at Danie Craven… We are really going to have to be at our best come Saturday.”
Players to Watch
For Stellenbosch, keep an eye on 20-year-old winger Langelihle Phili, who has netted twice in three appearances this term, including the decisive strike in extra time against AmaZulu to seal their quarterfinal win.
Midfielder Sanele Barns could also prove influential, having bagged a brace in that same 3-2 thriller, showcasing his ability to dictate play and finish from range.
On the Sekhukhune side, veteran striker Bradley Grobler remains a lethal threat with three goals already this season, including a double in the comeback against TS Galaxy.
Winger Vusimuzi Mncube adds another dimension, having scored the winner in that MTN8 quarterfinal and posing a constant danger on the counter with his pace and composure.
Head-to-Head
These sides have produced tightly contested affairs, with seven draws in their nine meetings across all competitions, both teams boasting identical records of one win, seven draws, one loss, and seven goals scored and conceded. Their sole cup clash came in the 2022/23 Nedbank Cup semifinal, ending 0-0 before Sekhukhune advanced on penalties.
Recent league encounters tilt slightly toward Stellenbosch, who claimed a 2-1 away victory in their last matchup during the 2024/25 season.
Expect another cagey duel where set pieces or quick transitions could decide the momentum heading into the second leg.