Stellenbosch FC's Carling Knockout campaign ended with a 3-0 defeat to Kaizer Chiefs in the last 16 at FNB Stadium. A hat-trick from Wandile Duba secured the Amakhosi's place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Siwelele FC.

How the tie was decided

Wandile Duba was the decisive figure, scoring all three goals for the hosts. He opened the scoring in the 25th minute, capitalising on a defensive error to slot home. His second came just before half-time, a powerful strike from the edge of the area. Duba completed his hat-trick in the 68th minute, sealing the victory. His performance ensured Stellenbosch's exit from the competition at the first hurdle. The result means Stellenbosch can now focus fully on their Betway Premiership campaign, where they currently sit seventh with 10 points from eight matches. Their next league assignment is a home game against Chippa United on Saturday.

Duba said, "Amadonkey aba gijimisile namhlanje." The young striker's clinical finishing proved too much for the Stellenbosch defence on the night. Stellenbosch coach Steve Barker acknowledged his team was second best, stating they were punished for individual mistakes and a lack of cutting edge in the final third.

What comes next for Stellenbosch

Attention now turns to the league, where Stellenbosch's form has been more positive. They are unbeaten in their last three Premiership outings, a run that includes a 2-0 win over Durban City last weekend. Sinoxolo Kwayiba scored both goals in that victory, taking his tally for the season to five and highlighting the attacking threat Steve Barker's side possesses. The team has kept two clean sheets in that three-match unbeaten run.

With the Carling Knockout over, the immediate focus is a return to league action at home to Chippa United. The team will aim to build on their current seventh-place standing and close the 13-point gap to league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. Barker emphasised the need to regroup quickly and transfer their league consistency into every performance.

The quarter-final picture

In the other confirmed Carling Knockout quarter-final ties, Orlando Pirates will host Sekhukhune United, and Mamelodi Sundowns meet Golden Arrows. The remaining quarter-final will see Richards Bay face the winner of the tie between Polokwane City and Cape Town City. The draw for the last eight was completed after the final round of 16 matches. Stellenbosch's conquerors, Kaizer Chiefs, have been drawn at home against Siwelele for their quarter-final, scheduled for the weekend of 7-8 November. The Premier Soccer League is expected to confirm final venue and ticketing details for all the ties in the coming days. Stellenbosch's next competitive match is against Chippa United at Danie Craven Stadium on 31 October.

The report in full is at supersport.com