Stellenbosch FC are preparing to host Polokwane City in a highly anticipated Nedbank Cup Last 16 encounter later this evening.
After a tough defeat to Stellies in last season’s Carling Knockout, Rise and Shine will be eager to redeem themselves, adding an exciting layer to this thrilling contest!
Beyond any Doubt
Polokwane City have certainly caught the eye during the current Betway Premiership campaign, with head coach Phuti Mohafe guiding them to an excellent third-place standing in the South African topflight after 17 matches. With aspirations for silverware, a trophy in the Nedbank Cup would undoubtedly cap off a remarkable season for the club.
Assessing Polokwane City’s strength, Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker has praised their effectiveness on the pitch.
“I think what Polokwane have done this year is be effective at what they do, especially with a player like [Oswin] Appollis, who’s a bit of their talisman and sort of plays in the type of position that he cheats a little bit, which makes his dangerous on transition,” said Barker.
“They’ve also got a solid defence, and I think they had a bit of a setback with [Thabang] Matuludi, but two seasoned centre-backs and [Ndamulelo] Maphangule in the midfield, and some wingers that have ability.
“So they just seem to be a tight-knit team, working hard for each other, and just taking opportunities when it has been presented to them and being quite difficult to break down.
Player Spotlight
Bafana Bafana international Fawaaz Basadien has been a key figure in Stellenbosch FC’s impressive performances in recent years, thriving under the leadership of Steve Barker.
The highly-rated left-back has made 27 appearances across all competitions, scoring six goals and contributing six assists. Recently, Basadien has reportedly attracted interest from Kaizer Chiefs, who are undergoing a rebuilding phase under Nasreddine Nabi. However, Basadien signed a long-term contract with Stellenbosch FC in February 2024, meaning any potential suitors would need to pay a significant transfer fee.
In cup competitions, the 28-year-old has been integral to the Maroons’ success. His contributions were vital in securing the club’s historic Carling Knockout Cup victory in 2024, their first-ever top-flight trophy. He also played a crucial role in Stellenbosch’s journey to the MTN8 final earlier this season, where they were defeated by Orlando Pirates.
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 19:00 on Thursday, 13 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 Polokwane City. 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 17/20 | Draw 39/20 | Polokwane City 37/10
The last time these two sides faced each other, in the league, the game ended in a 1-1 draw. There may not be much to separate these two on the night, however, I believe Polokwane City will edge the Western Cape counterparts.
Back a win for Polokwane City and over 1.5 goals at 6/1.