Stellenbosch FC travel to Durban City for a League Cup Round of 16 clash at Chatsworth Stadium this Wednesday, October 28. The match kicks off at 19:00 local time as Stellenbosch aim to progress in the cup competition.
Stellenbosch head into the tie in solid form, unbeaten in their last three matches across all competitions. Their most recent outing was a 1-1 Premier Soccer League draw with Kaizer Chiefs on October 13, where Sinoxolo Kwayiba scored a 48th-minute equaliser. That result leaves the club seventh in the Premier Soccer League table with 10 points from eight games, having recorded two wins and four draws against two losses. Their recent sequence of results includes a win and two draws, a run they will want to continue in the cup. The team has scored nine goals and conceded eight in the league this season. Their next league fixture is at home to Chippa United, who are ninth, on Friday 30 October.
Durban City's Form
Durban City's preparation has been mixed, with a 3-1 CAF Confederation Cup win over ASPL 2000 on October 18 followed by a 2-1 league loss to AmaZulu five days earlier. This cup tie presents a different challenge for the hosts, who will be looking to regain momentum. Durban City manager, Gavin Hunt, has confirmed he will field a strong side, acknowledging the League Cup as a priority for the club this season. Key midfielder Thabo Rakhale is a doubt for the match due to a minor hamstring strain picked up in training.
Stellenbosch's Team Selection
Stellenbosch's last starting lineup, from the draw with Kaizer Chiefs, featured S. Stephens in goal behind a defence of S. Nkwali, Spiwe Msimango, L. Vena and T. Mashego. The midfield trio of T. Lebitso, Njabulo Blom and L. Matlou supported attackers A. Du Preez, Q. Plaatjies and S. Kwayiba. Plaatjies is the team's top scorer this season with three goals in six appearances, a key threat for the visitors. Barker indicated that several players who were rested for the previous match are in contention to start, including winger Antonio van Wyk and central midfielder Jayden Adams. Fans can view the full squad list on the club's squad page.
With the League Cup offering a route to silverware, Stellenbosch will be focused on a positive result. The team then returns to league action just two days later, hosting Chippa United at home on October 30. The club has urged traveling supporters to arrive early at Chatsworth Stadium, with gates opening at 17:30. In the league, Stellenbosch are 13 points behind the leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns.
