Stellenbosch FC Bow Out of CAF Confederation Cup After Goalless Draw Against Simba SC
Durban, South Africa – April 27, 2025
Stellenbosch FC’s dream run in the 2025 CAF Confederation Cup came to a heartbreaking end at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday afternoon, as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Simba SC in the second leg of their semi-final tie. The result saw the Tanzanian giants advance to the final with a narrow 1-0 aggregate victory, following their first-leg win in Dar es Salaam.
Despite dominating large portions of the game and creating the better chances, Stellenbosch were unable to break down a resolute Simba defence. Coach Steve Barker made just one change to the starting XI from the first leg, bringing in Khomotjo Lekoloane for Ibraheem Jabaar, while Oscarine Masuluke retained his place in goal ahead of Captain Sage Stephens.
Stellenbosch showed urgency from the first whistle, propelled by a vocal home crowd in Durban. Their high pressing game and quick transitions pinned Simba back for large stretches, but the final touch continued to elude them.
After a goalless first half, Barker rang the changes in the 64th minute, introducing Sanele Barns and Genino Palace for Lekoloane and Devin Titus Butsaka in a bold move to inject more attacking firepower. Five minutes later, Lesiba Nku was brought on to add further pressure to the Tanzanian backline.
The tactical shift nearly paid off in the 74th minute when Genino Palace thought he had given the hosts the lead with a composed finish inside the box, sending the home fans into wild celebration. However, their joy was short-lived as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened and controversially ruled the goal out for offside — a call that appeared extremely marginal and left the Stellenbosch bench and supporters fuming.
Despite throwing everything forward in the final stages, including several late set-pieces and long balls into the box, Stellenbosch couldn’t find the crucial breakthrough. Simba SC held firm, showing the experience and composure that has made them a regular presence in continental competitions.
Speaking after the match, a visibly disappointed Steve Barker praised his players’ effort:
“Yeah, look it’s obviously a tough one to take. I haven’t seen the replays [VAR],” Barker said on SABC Sport. “I’ve always wanted VAR to be brought in our own league and unfortunately it’s gone a little bit against us, mainly last week, but you know congratulations to Simba first thing. I wish Fadlu (Davids), Darren and all the South African contingent that are with Simba the best for the final. We’ve tried everything in our capability to try to get a goal, to try and at least take it to penalties,” concluded Barker
Stellenbosch’s exit marks the end of a historic run in their debut continental season, with the club having already exceeded expectations by reaching the semi-finals. For Simba SC, the focus now shifts to their 1st CAF Confederations final, where they will look to capture continental silverware and solidify their status among Africa’s elite.