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By Sello Masilo
Cape Town – Stellenbosch FC bounced back from their early season disappointment with a resounding 3-0 victory over Cape Town City in the Betway Premiership, securing their first points of the campaign. The match took place at Athlone Stadium and was marked by an exceptional display of dominance from Steve Barker’s side.
The game was highly anticipated, with both teams looking to make their mark after sluggish starts to the new season. Cape Town City, coming off a 1-1 draw with Royal AM, were eager to improve their standing, while Stellenbosch were determined to rebound from their 2-0 defeat to Golden Arrows the previous week.
First Half: De Jong Breaks the Deadlock
The game started with both sides showing intent, and Cape Town City had early chances, with Darwin Gonzalez testing Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens in the opening minutes. However, Stellenbosch FC managed to find their rhythm as the first half progressed, creating dangerous opportunities.
It was Andre de Jong who broke the deadlock right on the stroke of half-time, giving Stellenbosch a crucial lead heading into the break. De Jong’s effort from outside the box caught City goalkeeper Darren Keet off-guard, leaving the Cape Town City defense exposed.
Second Half: Basadien’s Spectacular Goal and Barns’ First for Stellies
The second half saw a rejuvenated Stellenbosch side continue their dominance. Nine minutes after the restart, Fawaaz Basadien produced what could be one of the goals of the season, launching a shot from his own half to catch Darren Keet off his line, doubling Stellenbosch’s lead. This audacious goal left both fans and players in awe, as Basadien’s vision and accuracy put the game beyond Cape Town City’s reach.
Seven minutes later, new signing Sanele Barns put the game to bed with his first goal for Stellenbosch. Barns, who joined from Richards Bay FC, slotted in the third goal after a flowing team move, securing all three points for his new club.
Despite a late penalty awarded to City after Langelihle Phili was brought down in the box, Darren Keet’s subsequent penalty save on Ashley Cupido did little to change the outcome. Stellenbosch held firm, ensuring a clean sheet and a much-needed victory.
Impact on the Season
This victory lifts Stellenbosch FC to 10th place on the Betway Premiership table, just ahead of Cape Town City, who remain in 12th place after the loss. It also marked Stellies’ fourth consecutive derby win over their provincial rivals, adding to their growing dominance in this fixture.
The result will undoubtedly boost Stellenbosch’s confidence as they look to build momentum in the league. For Cape Town City, the match was a wake-up call, with head coach Eric Tinkler expressing his disappointment in his team’s inability to fight back after going behind.
Next Steps
Stellenbosch will now aim to carry this form into their next fixtures, while Cape Town City will have to regroup quickly as they prepare to face SuperSport United, hoping to avoid another defeat.
This Western Cape derby showcased not only Stellenbosch’s tactical discipline but also the brilliance of individual players like Fawaaz Basadien, who will likely be a key player for Stellies as the season progresses.
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